89POINTS
16¼/20
Rodney Strong Chardonnay 2021
California, United StatesAgain, this might be the best RS chardonnay I have tasted and is certainly proof of the evolution in style at Rodney Strong. It is down to 60% barrel fermented in French oak, with 40% new wood, and 40% in stainless steel. The malolactic fermentation touches 75% of the juice. The winemaking team continues to tighten the style, no doubt faster than America would like and slower than we would like, but the direction is good. The fruit is drawn from cooler, coastal locations outside Sonoma County, including Monterey and Santa Barbara, injecting a tropical note without the heavy perfume. Fresh citrus, red apple, pear, and lees dance along the 13.5 degree palate, suggesting this could be a fine match with seafood or chicken, or as an appetizer with avocado toast.Tasted: 10 January 2024Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $24.99 | 750ml | BCLS |
AB | $23.99 | 750ml | select private retailers |
ON | $21.95 | 750ml | LCBO Spot Buy |
QC | $21.95 | 750ml | SAQ |
Grape: ChardonnayCSPC: 226936UPC: 087512913257