2020 Kistler Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Fresh and lifted on the nose, the 2020 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard is bright with lime zest, white peach, and wet stone. It is persistent with energetic tension, noted by lemon verbena, green apple, and floral tones that last long on the finish. This one deserves some time in cellar to unwind and will be best enjoyed over the following 10 or more years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The dry-farmed vines at Kistler Vineyard, about 40 years old now, produced a wine with loads of personality. The 2020 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard unfolds its aromatic layers slowly, blossoming from flint to white peaches and lime peel, plus touches of dried sage, beeswax, almonds and pie crust. The palate is surprisingly powerful and concentrated, with hedonistic layers of stone fruit and candied citrus. All that fruit density is supported by a silky texture and seamless acidity, and a touch of phenolic texture drives its tremendously long finish.
The 2020 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard is one the more complete wines in this range. It offers fine depth and plenty of energy. Citrus peel, white flowers, mint, crushed rocks, graphite and dried herbs open nicely in the glass. This is a strong showing for the year.
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.