2001 Kistler Chardonnay Vine Hill Vineyard
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Less bright yellow than the Hudson. Reticent, pure aromas of minerals, menthol and truffle. Concentrated, precise, minerally and tactile, but still tightly wound. Very juicy, dry and sharply delineated chardonnay, finishing quite long and a bit austere. Offers terrific potential. From very poor soils, notes Kistler, who says the structure of this wine resembles that of the McCrea.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A brilliant effort, the 2001 Chardonnay Vine Hill Vineyard is tightly-knit, but full-bodied and powerful, with an oily texture buttressed by considerable acidity. Citrus oil, buttered tropical fruit, mineral, and roasted nut characteristics are present in this gorgeous offering. Full-bodied, pure yet well-structured, this terrific effort will drink well for 5-8 years. 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.