Hertelendy’s 2018 Russian River Chardonnay starts out with a luxurious nose (read high end barrels) that tip it in the direction of Burgundy. If Chardonnay can be described as brooding, this seems to be in such a realm. It is quite rich, and it seems that the oak is still integrating as the markers now are toffee, baked apple, nut and wood tones. It is headed in a good direction for its chosen style. I would age this another two years before going in even though it is a relatively late release, or decant it near term. In other words, treat it like a red wine.
Hertelendy Vineyards, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay 2018
By Rich Cook