First impression of the 2012 Grgich Hills Chardonnay—it’s old-school and intense. Classic orchard fruit aromas are couched in flint and matchstick that hover like an electric storm over rather more tender notes of toasted walnut, brioche, and acacia honey. In the mouth, there’s not an ounce of fat, it’s lean with considerable energy and verve. There is smoothness, sure—but it’s cleanly cut by lemon zest and white grapefruit pith, with minerally, toast notes emerging on the finish. 13.5% ABV | Sample
9.1 Points