2018 Domaine Della Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay [JD96][WE94][JS94][WA93][WS92]

Producer:Domaine Della
Region:Russian River Valley,Sonoma County,California
Varietal:Chardonnay
Year:2018

Jeb Dunnuck, 96 Points

"The vineyard designate, the 2018 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is largely in the same mold, although it was brought up in slightly less new oak (25%) and is just a touch lower in alcohol and higher in acidity. Despite those technical details, it's richer and more opulent (which is why you shouldn't judge a wine by numbers) and offers beautiful stone fruits, toasted brioche, honeysuckle, and white flower aromas and flavors. As with the straight Sonoma, it's pure, medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and has a great, great finish. This is another stunningly good Chardonnay from this estate to enjoy over the coming 7-8 years."

Wine Enthusiast, 94 Points

"Mineralladen earthiness underlies a richly textured and lengthy expression of ample tropical and stone fruit in this impressive vineyard designate. Baking spice and baked pear complete the cohesive picture of full-bodied power and grace."

James Suckling, 94 Points

"Hawthorn, ripe-peach, spiced-apple and praline aromas. Its full-bodied with crisp acidity. Concentrated and flavorful with a dense, phenolic texture. Long and tight."

Wine Advocate, 93 Points

"The 2018 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard has layered aromas of baked quince, yellow apples, lemon cream, hazelnuts and honey with touches of baker's yeast. The medium-bodied palate is uber silky and seamlessly fresh, just spreading its wings and gaining amplitude on the long, savory finish. Give it another year or two in bottle."

Wine Spectator, 92 Points

"Well-structured, featuring a fresh, pure-tasting mix of green apple, Asian pear and gooseberry flavors, backed by crisp acidity. Chamomile and honeysuckle notes fill the lithe, expressive finish. Drink now through 2025."

Alcohol: 14.5%

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.