2005 Paul Hobbs Chardonnay Ulises Valdez Vineyard
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Tasting notes
An elegant effort, the 2005 Chardonnay Ulises Valdez Vineyard reveals notes of orange blossom, pineapple, and peach nicely buttressed by good acidity, fabulous concentration, and an underlying subtle wood smoke character. Ripe and full-bodied with excellent acidity, it should drink well for 4-5 years. Previously recommended: 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (90), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (95+), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard (92+), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (91), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard (94). Tel. (707) 824-9879; Fax (707) 824-5843
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Hazy gold. Smoky citrus and peach flavors are complicated by hints of tarragon and baking spices. Lush, open-knit pit fruit flavors have a seductive, succulent herbal accent, with gentle acidity providing lift on the finish. Very, very suave, but also offers formidable concentration and persistence. This is from the first leaf of this vineyard.
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.