2008 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard
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Tasting notes
More delicate with fresh white currant, nectarine, apricot and pear characteristics, the medium to full-bodied 2008 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard is a more restrained, but still substantial Chardonnay to drink over the next 3-5 years. The irrepressible Paul Hobbs fashioned a beautiful portfolio of Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in both 2008 and 2009. His style of Chardonnay comes directly from the Burgundy handbook, meaning cool vineyard sites, full malolactic fermentations, lots of lees contact and the use of well-established clones, such as the old Wente and occasionally some of the newer Dijon clones. The 2009 Chardonnays are slightly more perfumed as well as lower in alcohol. Tel. (707) 824-9879; Fax (707) 824-5843
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Hazy gold. Pungent aromas of orange and grapefruit peel, smoky minerals, honeysuckle and spicecake. Juicy, intense and nicely focused, with very good extract to the smoky flavors of pit fruits and citrus pith. The wine's lively acidity adds intensity to the long, sappy and penetrating finish.
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.