2023 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Chardonnay

Very toasty and bold in aromas, then rich, saturated and deep in flavors. A full-bodied, ripe and concentrated wine that offers smoky oak, toasted walnuts, baked apples and a touch of honey in the lingering finish. So dense and long. A beautiful wine in a dramatic style. Drink now or hold. ~97 James Suckling

Waters, Stagecoach, Antica, and Hyde are all sources for this Chardonnay, fermented in barrel and aged for 10 months in 90% new French oak, mostly François Frères heavy toast. Always a crowd-pleaser, and no exception in 2023—a cool vintage that allowed for extended hang time without rapid Brix jumps or premature evolution, achieving perfect ripeness with depth and intensity of flavour and aroma. The acid tension is off the charts, shining through in this blend by Katie Vogt. A bright, fresh, and rich Chardonnay with layers of elegant citrus, refined stone and orchard fruit, leading into flamed pineapple, tangerine peel, and expressive ginger. A melted, warm honeyed texture builds, underpinned by firm tension that carries the long finish of tasty brioche and more candied ginger character. ~96 Decanter

Powerful up front, showing concentration, but at the core this is an elegant, seamless white, with white peach, melon and caramel apple flavors that offer length and depth. Accents of candied ginger, lemon blossoms and lemon curd, along with toasted and buttered brioche notes, come in on the long finish. Drink now through 2037. 3,180 cases made. ~94 Wine Spectator