Dec 30, 2022
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Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards
| Owner(s) | Elliott Dolin, Lynn Dolin |
| Web site | www.dolinestate.com |
| Link to this site |
This label was inspired by a backyard Chardonnay vineyard Elliott and Lynn Dolin planted behind their Malibu home. Since its launch in 2005, Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards has emerged as one of the leading producers in the burgeoning Malibu Coast, a region that attained AVA status in 2014.
After three vintages of Chardonnay, the winery expanded its Malibu production to include several more wines from the region and by the middle of 2014 released a line of Central Coast Pinot Noir wines from notable vineyards such as Talley Rincon, Bien Nacido and Solomon Hills.
The winemaker is Kirby Anderson who crafts the wines in a Central Coast facility.
Articles About Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards
California Pinot Noir Worth Toasting (11.20 3/15/2018)
Dolin Estate: New Central Coast Pinots Offer Exceptional Value (10.3 1/22/2015)
Notable Pinot Noir Producers First Met With in 2015 (10.23 12/27/2015)
Pinot Briefs (9.34 12/17/2013)
Pinot Briefs (9.44 7/28/2014)
Recently Tasted California Chardonnay (11.20 3/15/2018)
Recently Tasted Pinot Noir & Chardonnay (10.46 1/15/2017)
Sips of Recently Tasted Wines (9.38 2/22/2014)
Sips of White Wines Tasted Recently (10.14 7/12/2015)
Reviewed Wines
2015 Dolin Malibu Newton Canyon Chardonnay
14.3% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.57, 220 cases, $39.
Vineyard situated at 1,400 feet elevation above the fog line. Planted in 1993. Whole cluster
pressed, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 33% new. Left on
the lees and stirred twice monthly while in barrel. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately golden
yellow color in the glass. The saline-infused nose shows appealing restraint with added aromas of
citrus, green apple and candy corn. Bright and crisp, with a lemon-lime core, accommodating oak,
and some finishing citrus bounty.
Score: 90.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.62,
232 cases, $39. Whole cluster pressed and fermented in 33% new and 66% used French oak
barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation over 5 months, then left on the lees and stirred twice a month
during 15 months of barrel aging. Bottled unfined and filtered.
·
Light golden yellow color and clear in
the glass. Lovely perfume of lemon, pineapple, nutty apple and vanilla creme. The flavors of crisp
citrus and pear along with saline notes drive this nicely balanced wine that displays good vibrancy
and flavor presence. Recommended and a good value.
Score: 92.
Reviewed January 16, 2017
ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.62, 232 cases,
$39. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented with 100%
malolactic fermentation. Aged 15 months on the lees with
twice monthly stirring in French oak barrels, 33% new.
Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Light golden yellow color in
the glass. Engaging aromas of grilled lemon, pineapple,
spice, vanilla and flint lead to a flavor palate of lemon,
pineapple, yellow apple and spice. Creamy in the mouth, with good
fortitude, righteous acidity and a gratifying lemon-infused finish. Enjoy
this classy wine on its own or with shellfish.
Score: 93.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards Malibu-Newton Canyon Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.57,
187 cases, $39. Grapes were grown in the hills of Malibu at elevations of 1400 to 1800 feet above sea level.
Whole cluster pressed, fermented in 33% new and 66% used French oak barrels. 100% malolactic
fermentation over 5 months, then left on the lees and stirred twice a month during 15 months of barrel aging.
Bottled unfined and filtered.
·
Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Demure aromas of lemon oil,
applesauce, pear and oak are pleasing. A restrained, somewhat austere style, that is sleek and bright, featuring
shy flavors of citrus and pear. The wine lacks a bit of acidic verve.
Score: 89.
Reviewed January 16, 2017
ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Rincon Vineyard Arroyo Grande Valley Chardonnay
13.9% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.62,
140 cases, $39. Vineyard established in 1982 in Salinas clay loam soil. Whole cluster pressed,
barrel fermented and underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. Aged 15 months on the lees with
twice monthly stirring in French oak barrels, 33% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately
dark golden yellow color in the glass. The fruit-forward nose features aromas of lemon, pineapple,
mango and caramelized apple. Richly-fruited with a boisterous charge of ripe citrus and apple
flavors on a viscous frame. A thread of toast and roasted nuts plies the background. Quite
enjoyable, although I wished for more acidic verve.
Score: 90.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.63, 340 cases, $32. Sourced from Bien
Nacido Vineyard. Dijon 667. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermentation in 1.3-ton open-top tanks, and
aged 23 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the
glass. Noticeable oak toast and spice frames the aromas of black raspberry and plum. Mid weight plus in
concentration, featuring black stone and berry fruits engaged by gentle tannins. Plush and satiny in texture,
with integrated alcohol and a modest finish. Oak plays too prominent a role in this wine and this may worsen as
the wine ages so I recommend consuming it now.
Score: 87.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyard Malibu Coast Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.51, 136 cases, $39.
First wine with Malibu Coast AVA designation. 900 vines are
planted in volcanic soils in proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Barrel fermented and aged 13 months sur lie in 25% new
French oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation.
·
Moderately
light yellow color in the glass. The nose is clean and airy, with
scents of lemon zest, crushed shells, and a hint of buttery oak.
Very charming on the palate with bright flavors of white peach, citrus
fruits and the slightest oak compliment. Very refined, with impeccable
balance, and a pleasing cut of acidity creating a steely finish. I rarely use
the word seductive for Chardonnay, but this wine brings that to mind. A great lobster
wine.
Score: 94.
Reviewed July 13, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.61, 128 cases,
$45. Dijon 667. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermentation in 1.3-ton open-top tanks, and aged 21
months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the
glass. Very nice perfume of purple and black fruits with a complimentary floral note. A charming wine with a
tasty mid weight core of black cherry, black raspberry, black grape and spice flavors sporting a silky texture,
modest tannins and a gracious finish. The breeding of the grapes comes through in this wine.
Score: 92.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin John Sebastiano Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 340 cases, $45.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. Very ripe fruited, with aromas and flavors of dark berry jam, cassis and raisin. Mid
weight plus in style offering a silky mouth feel and ingratiating tannins but not much finish. The fruit has a
roasted quality and there is an additional tutti-fruity note.
Score: 87.
Reviewed March 17, 2018
ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.35% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.57, 485 cases, $32.
Sourced from select vineyards. Clones 115, Pommard 4 and Swan selection. Aged 20
months in French oak barrels, 18% new.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The
aromas really pop featuring black raspberry, plum, sandalwood and oak spice. This wine
displays dreamy balance with soft tannins, bright acidity, and readily accessible flavors of
very dark cherry, raspberry and plum with hints of cola and mocha. The finish is highly
satisfying.
Score: 90.
Reviewed January 22, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.58,
128 cases, $45. Clone 667. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderate reddish
purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, loamy earth, underbrush and oak lead to mid
weight, tasty flavors of black raspberry, blueberry and black cherry. Juicy and refreshing with
balanced tannins and a long, sleek finish.
Score: 91.
Reviewed January 22, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Solomon Hills Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.34% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.61,
140 cases, $45. Clone 777. Aged 19 months in French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderate reddish
purple color in the glass. Appealing scents of dark cherry cobbler, cassis and balsam. Plenty of oak-kissed
dark red and purple fruits that satisfy with a noticeable attack and fullness. Silky in the mouth
with modest tannins and some finishing length. This wine has more oak overlay than I prefer, but the
texture is seductive.
Score: 90.
Reviewed January 22, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Talley Rincon Vineyard Arroyo Grande Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., pH 3.65, TA 0.56, 172
cases, $45. Clones 667 and 777. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderately dark
reddish purple color in the glass. There is plenty of charm in this wine that offers bright scents of
plum, black raspberry, sous-bois and toasty oak. The luscious, rich core of boysenberry and plum
fruits is backed by firm, fine-grain tannins. This is a mouth coating wine that is hedonistic yet angelic,
and offers a very long and richly fruited finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed January 22, 2015
ARTICLE »
2011 Dolin Estate Malibu Estate Vineyard Los Angeles County Chardonnay
14.4% alc., 230 cases, $39. From a backyard vineyard planted behind the
Malibu home of Elliott and Lynn Dolin. Situated on a south-facing slope open to
the morning coastal marine layer, afternoon sun, gentle ocean winds, and cool
evenings. The Dijon 96 vines are planted in volcanic basalt soils beneath a
surface layer of clay. 100% barrel fermented for 10 months in 25% new French
oak barrels. 100% MLF. Third vintage. Vinified in the Central Coast by
winemaker Kirby Anderson.
·
Moderate golden yellow and clear in the glass.
Aromas of dried pineapple, citrus, honey, and toasted brioche lead to attractive
flavors of peach, lemon curd, pineapple, vanilla and a subtle saline note. Some
welcoming creaminess in the mouth with modest fullness and brightness on the finish. An interesting wine
from a unique site that has character.
Score: 88.
Reviewed February 22, 2014
ARTICLE »
2015 Dolin Malibu Newton Canyon Chardonnay
14.3% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.57, 220 cases, $39. Vineyard situated at 1,400 feet elevation above the fog line. Planted in 1993. Whole cluster pressed, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 33% new. Left on the lees and stirred twice monthly while in barrel. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately golden yellow color in the glass. The saline-infused nose shows appealing restraint with added aromas of citrus, green apple and candy corn. Bright and crisp, with a lemon-lime core, accommodating oak, and some finishing citrus bounty. Score: 90. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.62, 232 cases, $39. Whole cluster pressed and fermented in 33% new and 66% used French oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation over 5 months, then left on the lees and stirred twice a month during 15 months of barrel aging. Bottled unfined and filtered. · Light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Lovely perfume of lemon, pineapple, nutty apple and vanilla creme. The flavors of crisp citrus and pear along with saline notes drive this nicely balanced wine that displays good vibrancy and flavor presence. Recommended and a good value. Score: 92. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.62, 232 cases, $39. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented with 100% malolactic fermentation. Aged 15 months on the lees with twice monthly stirring in French oak barrels, 33% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Engaging aromas of grilled lemon, pineapple, spice, vanilla and flint lead to a flavor palate of lemon, pineapple, yellow apple and spice. Creamy in the mouth, with good fortitude, righteous acidity and a gratifying lemon-infused finish. Enjoy this classy wine on its own or with shellfish. Score: 93. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards Malibu-Newton Canyon Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.57, 187 cases, $39. Grapes were grown in the hills of Malibu at elevations of 1400 to 1800 feet above sea level. Whole cluster pressed, fermented in 33% new and 66% used French oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation over 5 months, then left on the lees and stirred twice a month during 15 months of barrel aging. Bottled unfined and filtered. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Demure aromas of lemon oil, applesauce, pear and oak are pleasing. A restrained, somewhat austere style, that is sleek and bright, featuring shy flavors of citrus and pear. The wine lacks a bit of acidic verve. Score: 89. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »
2014 Dolin Rincon Vineyard Arroyo Grande Valley Chardonnay
13.9% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.62, 140 cases, $39. Vineyard established in 1982 in Salinas clay loam soil. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented and underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. Aged 15 months on the lees with twice monthly stirring in French oak barrels, 33% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark golden yellow color in the glass. The fruit-forward nose features aromas of lemon, pineapple, mango and caramelized apple. Richly-fruited with a boisterous charge of ripe citrus and apple flavors on a viscous frame. A thread of toast and roasted nuts plies the background. Quite enjoyable, although I wished for more acidic verve. Score: 90. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.63, 340 cases, $32. Sourced from Bien Nacido Vineyard. Dijon 667. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermentation in 1.3-ton open-top tanks, and aged 23 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Noticeable oak toast and spice frames the aromas of black raspberry and plum. Mid weight plus in concentration, featuring black stone and berry fruits engaged by gentle tannins. Plush and satiny in texture, with integrated alcohol and a modest finish. Oak plays too prominent a role in this wine and this may worsen as the wine ages so I recommend consuming it now. Score: 87. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyard Malibu Coast Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.51, 136 cases, $39. First wine with Malibu Coast AVA designation. 900 vines are planted in volcanic soils in proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Barrel fermented and aged 13 months sur lie in 25% new French oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation. · Moderately light yellow color in the glass. The nose is clean and airy, with scents of lemon zest, crushed shells, and a hint of buttery oak. Very charming on the palate with bright flavors of white peach, citrus fruits and the slightest oak compliment. Very refined, with impeccable balance, and a pleasing cut of acidity creating a steely finish. I rarely use the word seductive for Chardonnay, but this wine brings that to mind. A great lobster wine. Score: 94. Reviewed July 13, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.61, 128 cases, $45. Dijon 667. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermentation in 1.3-ton open-top tanks, and aged 21 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Very nice perfume of purple and black fruits with a complimentary floral note. A charming wine with a tasty mid weight core of black cherry, black raspberry, black grape and spice flavors sporting a silky texture, modest tannins and a gracious finish. The breeding of the grapes comes through in this wine. Score: 92. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Dolin John Sebastiano Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 340 cases, $45. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Very ripe fruited, with aromas and flavors of dark berry jam, cassis and raisin. Mid weight plus in style offering a silky mouth feel and ingratiating tannins but not much finish. The fruit has a roasted quality and there is an additional tutti-fruity note. Score: 87. Reviewed March 17, 2018 ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.35% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.57, 485 cases, $32. Sourced from select vineyards. Clones 115, Pommard 4 and Swan selection. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 18% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas really pop featuring black raspberry, plum, sandalwood and oak spice. This wine displays dreamy balance with soft tannins, bright acidity, and readily accessible flavors of very dark cherry, raspberry and plum with hints of cola and mocha. The finish is highly satisfying. Score: 90. Reviewed January 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.58, 128 cases, $45. Clone 667. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, loamy earth, underbrush and oak lead to mid weight, tasty flavors of black raspberry, blueberry and black cherry. Juicy and refreshing with balanced tannins and a long, sleek finish. Score: 91. Reviewed January 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Solomon Hills Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.34% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.61, 140 cases, $45. Clone 777. Aged 19 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Appealing scents of dark cherry cobbler, cassis and balsam. Plenty of oak-kissed dark red and purple fruits that satisfy with a noticeable attack and fullness. Silky in the mouth with modest tannins and some finishing length. This wine has more oak overlay than I prefer, but the texture is seductive. Score: 90. Reviewed January 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Dolin Talley Rincon Vineyard Arroyo Grande Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., pH 3.65, TA 0.56, 172 cases, $45. Clones 667 and 777. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. There is plenty of charm in this wine that offers bright scents of plum, black raspberry, sous-bois and toasty oak. The luscious, rich core of boysenberry and plum fruits is backed by firm, fine-grain tannins. This is a mouth coating wine that is hedonistic yet angelic, and offers a very long and richly fruited finish. Score: 92. Reviewed January 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Dolin Estate Malibu Estate Vineyard Los Angeles County Chardonnay
14.4% alc., 230 cases, $39. From a backyard vineyard planted behind the Malibu home of Elliott and Lynn Dolin. Situated on a south-facing slope open to the morning coastal marine layer, afternoon sun, gentle ocean winds, and cool evenings. The Dijon 96 vines are planted in volcanic basalt soils beneath a surface layer of clay. 100% barrel fermented for 10 months in 25% new French oak barrels. 100% MLF. Third vintage. Vinified in the Central Coast by winemaker Kirby Anderson. · Moderate golden yellow and clear in the glass. Aromas of dried pineapple, citrus, honey, and toasted brioche lead to attractive flavors of peach, lemon curd, pineapple, vanilla and a subtle saline note. Some welcoming creaminess in the mouth with modest fullness and brightness on the finish. An interesting wine from a unique site that has character. Score: 88. Reviewed February 22, 2014 ARTICLE »