Winery notes (2023 Vintage)
"America’s #1 selling Chardonnay for 30+ years and counting! Sourced from sustainably farmed, premium coastal vineyards and crafted with artisanal techniques, Vintner's Reserve sets the standard for classic California Chardonnay. Our winemaking team individually ferments and ages 1,000+ vineyard lots in oak barrels, prior to assembling the final blend.
Beautifully integrated tropical flavours such as pineapple, mango and papaya, with citrus notes that explode in your mouth. These flavours delicately intertwine with aromas of vanilla and honey to create depth and balance throughout. A hint of toasted oak and butter rounds out the long, lingering finish. Aged 3 months in 44% French Oak (4% new) and 50% American Oak (7% new)"
Reviews for previous vintages below…
5 Stars & 94/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, December 2024 (2022 Vintage)
"Richly fruited and complex, the inviting bouquet shows mango, grilled pineapple, butterscotch, and cedar aromas, leading to an opulent palate filled with delectable fruit flavours with stylish oak nuances. Mouthfilling and plush, offering terrific drinking. At its best: now to 2028."
90/100 Clive Pursehouse, Decanter, July 2023 (2022 Vintage)
"The Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay from the 2022 vintage is undeniably complex and delicious. Elegant notes of lemon creme are braced by a nutmeg spice and vanilla note that is complementary and far from overpowering. The palate offers plenty of fresh acidity, honey, lemongrass, bee pollen, and citrus, all combined for a tremendous value and Chardonnay that will shock many in a blind tasting."
Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, October 2023 (2021 Vintage)
"A lifted, fruity and varietal bouquet of Chardonnay with scents of apricots and peach, vanilla-cream and a touch of butterscotch. Bold and expressive with a smoky vanilla oak quality. Plenty of weight on the palate though not full-bodied – and it doesn’t have to be, it is satin textured with contrasting acidity. Flavours of yellow stone-fruits, apple and baking spices reflect the bouquet. Rather delicious, youthful and plenty to like with its refreshing lengthy finish. Best drinking from 2023 through 2028."
Wine Enthusiast (2021 Vintage)
"For lovers of ripe, rich Chardonnay – this pour is for you. Yellow apple, Bosc pear, yellow peach, mango skins and banana peel fruit notes intertwine with candied almonds, vanilla, nutmeg and buttery popcorn."