2012 Benovia Fort Ross-Seaview Chardonnay

14.2% alc., $48. If you are a fan of Marcassin Chardonnay, note that this wine is sourced from the same 15 to 20 year-old Dijon vines on the Three Sisters Vineyard owned by the Martinelli family, and formerly used by Marcassin for years for their Three Sisters Chardonnay. The vineyard is adjacent Marcassin Vineyard on the West Sonoma Coast. 100% malolactic fermentation, aged in 40% new French oak, unfiltered. · Light golden straw color in the glass. A classy wine with aromas of lemongrass, citrus, spice, poached pear and floral goodness. A delicious wine with flavors echoing the aromas, and offering noticeable attack and finish. Oak adds a subtle note of caramel and brioche. There is good tension provided by citrus-fueled acidity, and some textural interest. A connoisseur's Chardonnay. Score: 93. Reviewed December 10, 2014

Winery: Benovia Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (& Chardonnay)