94+ 2006 Ridge Monte Bello Chardonnay 8/21/10 ($50)
13% alc
Color: Medium deep gold. (3.0) Bouquet: Minerals and spice and hints of watercress and pine. Restrained, but interesting. (3.0) Body: Light heavyweight with impressive concentration, acidity and minerals. Coats the mouth beautifully. (3.5) Flavor: Explodes with honeysuckle, minerals and hints of dried red pepper and pine. (4.0) Finish: Parallels flavor, but not quite as open, with spice turning towards nutmeg. (3.0)
Overall: Terrific concentration with a very strong core of flavor and structure. Shows outstanding minerals and honeysuckle fruit that coat the mouth big-time with nuances of nutmeg, pine and dried red pepper lingering. Took an hour or two in a decanter to open for now drinking and should be at its best in 5+ years. Impressive stuff! (16.5)
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