96+ 2005 Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay 4/6/14 ($36)
14.6 % alc
Color: Deep 22kt gold. (3.5) Bouquet: Toast, honeysuckle and kiwi with elegant butterscotch. (3.5) Body: Light heavyweight with outstanding fruit and excellent acidity and minerality. Rich, silky mouthfeel that coats. (3.5) Flavor: Delicious, fresh and lively flavors. Rich and concentrated, yet elegant. (3.5) Finish: Spiced pear, buttered rum and acidity linger. Long and pretty. (3.5)
Overall: A great Chardonnay that is on the early side of peak with beautiful freshness and precision. Shows mature flavors of buttered rum and complex toast mixed in with concentrated kiwi, spiced pear and honeysuckle fruit. Complex old Madeira nuances linger in the finish. Should remain this good or even improve in the next 2-3 years. At least as good as the great '96, maybe even better. Exciting stuff!!! (17.5)
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