2016 Kistler Chardonnay Dutton Ranch Formerly RRV
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch is one of the more floral wines in the range. Supple and light on its feet, the 2016 offers plenty of lovely citrus and floral character, but doesn't quite have the richness of detail of the very finest wines in this lineup. In exchange, though, readers will find a forward, inviting Chardonnay that will drink well upon release.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2016 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch comes from a well-known Russian River vineyard. Brioche, apple blossom, and white flower notes all emerge from this textbook Russian River Chardonnay. It has tons of ripe, classic orchard fruits, good acidity, and a layered, ripe texture. It also has brilliant purity of fruit. There’s been a distinct style change at Kistler, with winemaker Jason Kesner purposely pulling back on the harvest dates and making a classic, age-worthy style of both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He’s done this without sacrificing depth, concentration, or richness, and these latest 2016s are truly brilliant wines.
The 2016 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch leaps from the glass with exuberant ripe apricots, pink grapefruit and lemon meringue pie notes with hints of lime cordial, honeysuckle and fennel seed plus a waft of almond croissant. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is beautifully elegant with bags of energy and compelling freshness, finishing long and yeasty.
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.