VINOUS, September 2020

2016 Chardonnay Casteel – 94
Light, bright yellow. Meyer lemon, pear and smoky minerals on the deeply perfumed nose, along with hints of jasmine, vanilla and candied ginger that emerge with air. Silky in texture and well-concentrated, offering palate-staining citrus and orchard fruit flavors complemented by brioche, oyster shell and toasty lees nuances. The floral note repeats emphatically on the extremely long, supple finish, which is energized by a jolt of smoky minerality. Aged for 15 months in 55% new French oak.
— Josh Raynolds

2016 Chardonnay Estate – 92
Translucent straw-gold. Aromas of pear nectar, pineapple and Meyer lemon are complemented by subtle vanilla, fennel and jasmine nuances. Juicy and seamless on the palate, offering Meyer lemon, Anjou pear and floral flavors and a touch of dusty minerality that appears on the back half. At once concentrated and lively in personality, delivering firm closing thrust, a repeating floral note and very good persistence.
— Josh Raynolds

2016 Chardonnay Justice Vineyard – 93
Pale yellow-gold. Fresh honeydew, Meyer lemon, pear nectar, vanilla and toasted brioche on the deeply perfumed, oak-spiced nose. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering densely packed yet energetic orchard and citrus fruit and sweet butter flavors and a spicy suggestion of ginger. Shows impressive energy and mineral lift on the persistent finish, which features a suave, insistent floral quality. Aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% of them new.
— Josh Raynolds