Paul Hobbs - Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2022 (750ml)
Price: $69.99
| Producer | Paul Hobbs |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Sonoma County |
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Sku | 7433 |
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A delicate pale straw color in the glass, this wine opens with a bright pairing of fresh citrus peel and crisp Asian pear, evolving into juicy apple and tropical fruit aromas. Expressive gardenia wraps around these layers as they extend into a palate edged with hints of brioche and cream. A vein of savory minerality supports a clean, crisp, and beautifully integrated finish.
Paul Hobbs Description
The ‘22 growing season presented a few challenges—especially down the home stretch—reminding us that adversity often breeds surprising insights and learnings that an otherwise relatively benign path cannot. The ’22 vintage showcases the resilience of diligently farmed vineyards. Therein lies the silver lining. Winter and early spring brought little rain and mild temperatures across Napa and Sonoma Counties leading to an early bud break, and a strong, well-defined bloom. During the first week of June, a surprise deluge caused moderate berry shatter (i.e., coulure (fr.) a failure of grapes to develop after flowering) in certain vineyards. That, combined with dry soils, kept yields low and berries small, a promising setup for concentrated color and flavors. A temperate summer helped produce uniform ripening and our reliably cool nights, with diurnal dips into the 50s, kept acidity levels high and bright. Harvest commenced on August 22—our earliest harvest on record—followed swiftly by a final heat spell in early September with temperatures peaking at 117°F at some locations. Early harvests tend to be compressed, and the heat accelerated its pace. Despite the travails, however, the wines are deeply flavored, layered, and complex, with superb balance and energy.
James Suckling: 94 Points
The fruit in this is very beautiful, with sliced apples, cream and hints of stone. Full-bodied with plenty of fruit and a creamy texture that shows tension and intensity. Just the right amount of oak to highlight this. Drink or hold.
Wine Spectator: 93 Points
Offers a stylish, sleek mix of tangerine, mango puree and peach preserves, plus a touch of grilled Meyer lemon, all mingling with fresh acidity, with a hint of peaches and cream for a lithe texture. Drink now.
Vinous: 93 Points
The 2022 Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) is a delight. Tangerine peel, butter, ripe pear, apricot and white flowers open effortlessly. Medium in body and vibrant with terrific depth, the Russian River Chardonnay is a beautiful introduction to the range.
Wine Enthusiast: 91 Points
The nose of this wine gives lifted aromas of lemon balm, Bosc pear and tangerine. Fresh and acid-driven, the palate offers flavors of crème brûlée, spiced apple chutney and cinnamon in a well-balanced framework of toasty oak.
Wine Advocate: 90 Points
Matured in 36% new oak, the 2022 Chardonnay opens with matchstick scents that give way to baked peaches, apples and honey. The medium-bodied palate offers generous, gently honeyed flavors and integrated, spicy new oak. It has a soft, supple texture balanced by lip-smacking acidity and a long, flavorful finish.
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