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
Roland Champion Champagne Special Club Grand Cru is made from Chardonnay.
The 'Special Club' designation is one of the most prestigious in Champagne, reserved exclusively for the finest vintages from member growers of the Club Trésors de Champagne. Each Special Club wine undergoes rigorous peer tasting and must meet exceptional quality standards before receiving the coveted Special Club label.
Roland Champion's Grand Cru Special Club comes from the finest Chardonnay parcels in the Côte des Blancs. Generous aromas of sun-ripened green apple, peach, nougat, and white chocolate layered with fresh lemon and grilled citrus. On the palate, rich and creamy with lively, fine-beaded mousse. Bright notes of grapefruit, lime, and toasted nuts lead to a long, round finish accented by toasted brioche, white flowers, and pronounced chalky minerality. Elegant and structured with excellent aging potential.
A collector's Champagne, perfect for special celebrations or paired with fine cuisine such as lobster, truffle dishes, or aged Comté cheese.