Paul Hobbs 2020 George Menini Estate Chardonnay – Russian River Valley

95-Point Luxury Chardonnay from California’s Premier Cool-Climate Vineyard

Crafted by legendary winemaker Paul Hobbs, this inaugural 2020 vintage from the newly acquired George Menini Estate showcases the potential of Sebastopol Hills’ Goldridge soils. Once an apple orchard, this meticulously redeveloped 37-acre vineyard now yields exceptional heritage Chardonnay with vibrant minerality and sophisticated texture.

Tasting Profile:
– Aroma: Layers of bruised apple, white peach, and citrus blossom with delicate new oak spice
– Palate: Medium-bodied with chalky mineral texture, lemon confit, and green apple freshness
– Finish: Remarkable length balanced by sea-salt minerality and crunchy acidity

Critical Acclaim:
– Wine Advocate 95pts: “Youthfully blocky fruits with integrated freshness”
– Jeb Dunnuck 95pts: “Lifted tarragon and flint notes with vibrant energy”
– Wine Spectator 92pts: “Generous yellow apple and pineapple flavors with nutmeg complexity”

Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now for its lively fruit or cellar until 2034 as baking spice notes evolve. Perfect with seared scallops, truffle risotto, or aged Comté cheese.

Technical Notes:
– Alcohol: 14.2%
– Vineyard: Sustainable Goldridge soil plantings
– Winemaking: Barrel-fermented with native yeasts; aging regimen tailored to vintage expression

A collector’s choice for those seeking limited-production Sonoma Coast Chardonnay with terroir transparency and age-worthy structure.