90+ 2009 Dehlinger Chardonnay Russian River Valley 7/1/12 ($37)
14.9% alc
Color: Bright gold. (3.0) Bouquet: Elegant buttered toast complements rich pear fruit. Somewhat restrained. (3.0) Body: Lively in the mouth with tangy acidity and excellent fruit. Light heavyweight with elegance. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but fruit is more giving. Spice and toast from oak combine with tangy fruit to generate excitement. (3.5) Finish: Has nice length, but some bitterness from oak and alcohol. (3.0)
Overall: An excellent example of Russian River Valley Chardonnay. A little more ripe and not as acidity driven and complex as the '08. Nonetheless, should improve in the next few years. (15.5)
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