2011 Paul Hobbs Ulises Valdez Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.3% alc., $72. Harvest Brix 24.2º. Barrel fermented with indigenous yeasts, aged 15 months in 67% new French oak barrels, aged sur lies with biweekly batonnage. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Opens nicely in the glass to reveal a perfume of buttery brioche, apple and lemon blossom. Well-crafted with inviting flavors of fresh apple, pear, lemongrass and honey, with just the right handle of nutty oak. Creamy on the palate with some finishing presence. Score: 90. Reviewed September 5, 2013

Winery: Paul Hobbs Winery
From article: Small Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir and a Few Whites