2015 Smith-Madrone Napa Valley Chardonnay

14.4% alc., pH 3.29, TA 0.803, 512 cases, $34. Vineyard founded in 1971 at the top of Spring Mountain at 1,800 feet elevation. Winery is run by Charles, Sam and Stuart Smith. Steep, dry farmed vineyard with red and rocky volcanic soil. Estate grown and bottled. For 47 years, Smith- Madrone wines have been sourced from the same vineyards, pruned, cultivated and harvested in the same manner. 100% barrel fermented, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 80% new. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon oil, slate, toast, stony earth and matchstick. Intense citrus core with a bright and crisp demeanor. Flavors of lemon, pineapple, caramel and a hint of graphite. A refreshing drink with an amazing finish spearheaded by highly aromatic citrus that seems to build in intensity over time at the end. I rarely encounter a finish of this grandeur in Chardonnay. Score: 94. Reviewed January 6, 2018

Winery: Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery
From article: Chardonnay: No Wonder that it is the Most Popular White Varietal