2019 & 2020 Cobb Kistler Russian River Valley Chardonnay Tasting Lot

“This is a masterclass in Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Crystalline aromatics of sea foam, lemon verbena, petrichor, grilled lemon peel, and a savoury, smoky edge. The palate is mineral driven, refined, yet edgy. Tempermental yet linear fruit flavours, shifting from apricot flesh to peach skin and grapefruit pith. There is a mineral core of smoky flint, crushed chalk and wet stone. This wine is just showing itself and will become more compelling, if that's possible, in a few years.” (05/2023)

“The 2019 Chardonnay Doc's Ranch Vineyard JoAnn's Block has intense aromas of white peaches, beeswax, roasted almonds, biscuit and flint. The medium-bodied palate is savory and textural, with a biscuity character that adds breadth and savoriness. It has seamless acidity and a very long finish that offers continually shifting flavors. It's very energetic and will be long lived in the cellar. (EB)” (07/2022)

“The 2020 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch is a powerhouse! Gregarious baked apples, apricot and tangerine peel are accented with touches of dried herbs and flint on the nose, and the full-bodied palate stuns with its ultra-concentrated fruit. It offers an expansive, satiny texture, youthful touches of spring butter, oak spice and refreshing, tangy acidity that balances the very long, flavorful finish. It's a near-foil to its shimmery, lifted 2019 counterpart and just as beautiful—which one you like best will just depend on the style of California Chardonnay you enjoy most! (EB)” (07/2022)

“Aromas of green apple, nutmeg and fresh herbs. Medium-to full-bodied with great structure and length. The fruit is well attuned to the driving acidity that keeps the palate going for some time. Slightly nutty finish. Drink or hold.” (03/2022)

“Memorable, with intense fleshy apricot, peach and pear flavors that are ripe and supple, joined by honeysuckle, lemongrass and mouthwatering, salty minerality. Delivers details of lemon zest and white pepper on the fresh finish. (MW)” (07/2023)

“The 2020 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch offers aromas of fresh pineapple, ripe citrus, and lemon balm, followed by a honeyed and layered richness on the palate, with custardy texture, great purity, and concentration. This is a pleasurable wine to drink over the next 10 years. (AF)” (08/2022)