2013 Soliste Les Cailles Russian River Valley Chardonnay

12.8% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.63, 73 cases, $50. Vineyard located just north of Sebastopol, originally planted in 1971 and among the oldest Chardonnay vines in the Russian River Valley. 100% whole cluster pressed, fermented on the lees in concrete eggs. Malolactic fermentation arrested to preserve brightness and focus. Additional barrel aging in 600L Taransaud barrels for 11 months. Claude says, “White Burgundies are our benchmark….extraordinary verve, complexity and elegance.” · Light golden yellow color in the glass. A wine that thoroughly satisfies with flavors of lemon, blonde caramel and vanilla creme. Fresh on the palate, with toothsome softness and a giving cut on the finish. Still inviting when tasted two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed April 1, 2018

Winery: Soliste
From article: Soliste Pinot Noir is a Modern Interpretation of the Craftsmanship of the Cistercian Monks of Vougeot