2019 Joseph Phelps Chardonnay Freestone Vineyards Pastorale Vineyard
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Tasting notes
I continue to love the Sonoma releases from this iconic Napa producer. Starting with the 2019 Chardonnay Pastorale Vineyard, its light gold hue is followed by a vibrant bouquet of pineapple and subtle tropical fruits that are balanced by classy oak, spice, and honeyed flower aromas and flavors. Juicy, medium-bodied, and lively on the palate, with impeccable balance, it will shine for 4-5 years, if not longer.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2019 Chardonnay Pastorale Vineyard explodes with perfume: white peaches, dried flowers, spring honey and exotic herbal notes that, combined with a whiff of graphite-like minerality, gives this wine a unique personality. The palate is wonderful, full and satiny and loaded with perfumed fruits, and it finishes with appealing juiciness and loads of flavor. It's incredibly gregarious for its age and can be enjoyed straight from bottle.
The 2019 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyards Pastorale Vineyard offers a bit more energy and cut than the Sonoma Coast bottling, but in 2019 the two Chardonnays are not as different as they often are. Tangerine oil, dried herbs, lemon confit and almond develop with a bit of coaxing. This is an especially phenolic, savory style.
About the producer
California winery Joseph Phelps is best known for its flagship Insignia cuvée, one of the first and finest proprietary red wines in the Napa Valley.