2012 Kessler-Haak Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay

14.6% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.61, dry. 65 cases, $29. Estate grown fruit. Yield 1.7 tons per acre. Clones 95, 96, 76. Barrel fermented and barrel aged sur lie for 8 months in 15% new French oak barrels. · Mild golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The pleasing fruit aromas of lemon and golden apple are somewhat obscured by a toasty, nutty oak topcoat. Discreetly rich on the palate with flavors of baked apple, poached pear and citrus peel, finishing with a burst of refreshing citrus. Slightly creamy in texture. Oak is less intrusive on the palate than on the nose. Improves over time in the glass. Score: 88. Reviewed March 29, 2014

Winery: Kessler-Haak Vineyard & Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Wines