2014 Kongsgaard Napa Valley Chardonnay

“The 2014 Napa Valley Chardonnay is another stunning release from John Kongsgaard, which is made from Wente clones, sourced from the famous Hyde and Hudson vineyards in Carneros. Possessing a rich and golden hue, this wine opens with amazing aromatics of butterscotch, beeswax, poached pear, bananas foster and hints of nutmeg and minerals. The aromatics are absolutely intoxicating, as the bouquet is continually bringing you back for more. On the palate there is remarkable structure and weight, having an oily texture, combined with lovely acidity and bright flavors of lemon oil, white truffle, kumquat, Marzipan and crème brûlée. The range and flavor profile is spellbinding, as it enters the exceedingly long, complex finish. (OB)” (01/2017)

“Plethora of fruit character in this white with so much cooked apple, apricot, and pineapple character. It changes with every layer on the palate. Full yet energetic.” (03/2017)

“The 2014 Chardonnay is a knockout, showing loads of structure, with lemon blossom intermixed with subtle pineapple, honeysuckle and crushed rock, giving it a vivid minerality, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a long, long finish. This should drink well for 7-8 years at minimum. Part mystic, part great winemaker and long-time veteran of the Napa Valley wine scene, John Kongsgaard continues to turn out a bevy of exciting and compelling wines from his family’s vineyards high in the cool, rocky soils of Coombsville in the southeastern sector of Napa Valley. (RP) 94+” (12/2016)

“Kongsgaard's 2014 Chardonnay is a crescendo of aromas, flavors and textures. Expansive, rich and super-expressive, the 2014 is surprisingly accessible at such a young age. I am not sure how well the 2014 will age, but it is exceptionally beautiful and inviting today. Slate, candied lemon, vanillin and a hint of reduction infuse the striking finish. This is a terrific vintage for the Napa Valley Chardonnay. (AG)” (12/2016)