Winemaker Jeff Gaffner is no doubt best known for his prowess with Pinot Noir, but you can bet he’s no slouch when it comes to Chardonnay. This is the first release from this new vineyard, planted by owners the Green and Birdsall families in 2015 with two Chardonnay clones – Dijon 95 and Wente Hyde Selection – and to say that it’s a stellar debut for the site would be an understatement. Subtle lemon oil aromas turn to vibrant palate flavors, where notes of stone fruit, melon and stony minerality join the festivities. The finish keeps the flavors pumping with lively acidity that is crisp without scouring. It’s easily the best Chardonnay I’ve tasted this year, and it’s one that will cellar nicely if you do that sort of thing. Bravo!
Black Kite, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay 2018
By Rich Cook