2002 Kistler Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Medium yellow. Superripe, musky aromas of orange oil, ginger, charred oak and light sulfides. Sweet and full in the mouth, but with a penetrating quality to the pineapple and spice flavors. This, too, is very light on its feet. Finishes elegant, juicy and long, with an enticing mineral edge to its flavors.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A profound effort from the dynamic Kistler-Bixler duo is the 2002 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard. Spectacular ripeness along with a liquid minerality give this large-scaled, bigger than life Chardonnay tremendous balance/equilibrium. This compelling, full-bodied, dense wine offers smoky hazelnut characteristics intermixed with oranges, lemons, tropical fruits, and hints of Grand Marnier as well as caramel. There is a lot going on in this full-bodied, concentrated yet impeccably well-balanced offering. It should drink well for a decade. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709
About the producer
Kistler’s Chardonnays are some of the world’s most sought-after. This cult Californian producer crafts small volumes of exceptional, rich and generous, yet mineral and precise wines. With almost the entire production sold directly to their mailing list, the wines are also incredibly hard to find.