91POINTS
16¾/20
Rodney Strong Chardonnay Reserve 2016
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe RS Reserve starts with meticulously farmed blocks among the very best vineyards in the Russian River Valley. The lots are vinified separately in the small on-site Artisan Cellar at Rodney Strong, in the best barrels, and blended just after malolactic before returning to barrel to complete the ageing process. 2016 was the dream vintage in California, and especially for the chardonnays that embraced the cool overcast days of late August and early September. The new oak is less than 25 percent and it leaves some of the best fruit in Sonoma to tell its story. Intense tropical creamy lemon with brioche and minerality lead off, while the acidity lifts this wine from the front to back. Still California in style but with a fresher outlook and delivery. Halibut and fruit salsa would be my suggestion for dinner. Ready to drink.Tasted: 28 January 2020Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:US | $40.00 | 750ml | estimated retail |
ON | $45.00 | 750ml | Consignment - Mark Anthony Wine Merchants |
BC | $52.99 | 750ml | private wine stores |
Grape: ChardonnayCSPC: 805242UPC: 0087512076624