twitter mail facebook instagram linkedin pinterest
Top 10

Ramey Chardonnay Napa Valley Carneros Hyde Vineyard 2016

Score
95
Price
$65
Cases Made
1,256

David Ramey has been a trailblazing California Chardonnay winemaker for nearly four decades, and he tapped one of the top sites of southern Napa to make this classic-rated 2016. Carneros features gently rolling hills and benefits from the cooling influence of marine air from the Pacific; in the vineyard, heavy clay soils limit vine vigor and yields to produce concentrated flavors. This is a well-structured Chardonnay made with classic techniques such as whole-cluster pressing, barrel fermentation and malolactic conversion. It should blossom in the cellar, reflecting Ramey’s winemaking philosophy: less new oak in favor of accentuating vibrant fruit and minerality.

Tasting Note

Precise and powerfully structured, with intense Asian pear, apple and ripe citrus flavors that feature rich, savory notes. Displays concentrated minerality on the spicy and textured finish. Should blossom in the cellar. Best from 2021 through 2025.—Kim Marcus

Special Designation:
Highly Recommended
Region:
Carneros, California
Issue Date:
June 30, 2019