2004 Chardonnay Lauren
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Tasting notes
Hints of dried pear, almond, dried flowers, candied lemon and spice run through the 2004 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard. A wine of striking aromatic nuance and complexity, the 2004 is in a beautiful spot right now. I would prefer to finish any remaining bottles soon, as there is no upside from holding the 2004 further. This is an impressive showing.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A superb effort, the 2004 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard exhibits huge notes of lemon oil, nectarines, quince, citrus blossoms, and crushed rocks/minerals. This big, rich, full-bodied Chardonnay boasts stunning acidity, a superb texture, and an amazing finish. This Chardonnay tends to be aged in 100% new oak (which is totally concealed) and is bottled without fining or filtration. Consequently, if it has just been shipped or moved, it can reveal a slight haze. Previously recommended: 2003 Chardonnay Lauren (96), 2003 Chardonnay Quarry (95), 2003 Chardonnay Reuling (94), 2003 Chardonnay Ritchie (96), 2003 Pinot Noir Reuling (96). Tel. (707) 942-5611; Fax (707) 942-1573
(100% new oak; 15.9% alcohol) Pale green-tinged yellow. Spicy and tropical aromas of dried pineapple, minerals, flowers, cinnamon and nutmeg. Fat, ripe and compellingly sweet and seamless, but with rocky and saline traces giving cut to this viscous wine. Wonderfully chewy and juicy chardonnay, finishing with a powerful burst of flavor and superb length. A portion of this vineyard was harvested in August.
About the producer
The Aubert wines, particularly the Chardonnay, have a cult following – beloved for their rich, hedonistic style. Created by Mark and Theresa Aubert in 1999, the property makes some of California’s most sought-after Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, all from single vineyards across Sonoma.