Colored in pearlescent pale straw tones flecked with gold, our 2022 chardonnay from Russian River Valley’s cool Green Valley opens with a refreshing swirl of clover and fresh-cut alfalfa laced with spring blossoms around hints of white peach and citrus that open to crisp Fuji apple and warm baking spice. Apple notes carry through in the mouth over complex layers of crème caramel and butterscotch, all lifted with the bright energy of juicy acidity and savory oyster shell minerality. The rich, structured finish is touched with sea salt—the briny tension in elegant balance with a touch of new oak.
Green tint to the light yellow color. A very tight 2022 for this hot vintage, showing tension and focus. Medium- to full-bodied with super integrated tannins that show such length and intensity. It gives a beautiful nod to grand cru Burgundies of yesteryear. Love this. Drink or hold.
-James Suckling 97 Points
Technically from Green Valley of the Russian River Valley, the 2022 Chardonnay Ross Station Estate is a bright yellow green hue and comes from the Hudson Vineyard, which sits on pure Goldridge soils and includes some of the later ripening Calera clones. Aged 18 months in barrel, the wine has a Grand Cru-like richness and layered depth. In the glass, it shows off a wonderful bouquet of candied apple, honeysuckle, lemon oils, and almond. The palate is rounded, with a silky texture and great acidity that propels it through the palate to its long finish with notes of almond. This is an exceptional wine to drink over the next 10-12 years. 460 cases were produced. Drink: 2024-2036.
-Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points
Clos Du Val Yettalil is a Bordeaux blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot, 6% Malbec, 5% Carménère, 3% Merlot
A tribute to Clos du Val's founding matriarch, Henrietta Goelet, Yettalil is the fullest expression of their Stags Leap District Estate. A blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is supported by Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Carménère, and Petit Verdot.
Yettalil draws you into the glass with captivating aromas of blackberry, plum, cherry compote, fresh sage, and spice. Expressive yet composed, the layers foretell a wine of character and complexity. As you taste, the wine sweeps across the palate with polished tannins and flavors of pure blackcurrant. The 2022 vintage's vibrant acidity carries the wine towards along, smooth finish.
Review:
Fragrant and expressive with aromas of red and black currants, lavender and fresh spearmint. Medium- to full-bodied with supple texture and fine, integrated tannins. There’s a cool-fruit elegance, layered with floral spices and a touch of cedar. Balanced and refined with quiet persistence. Very good. Drink now or from 2028.
- James Suckling 97 Points