Ramey Rochioli Vineyard Chardonnay 2017

#15 wine of the year. Only the third vintage by this producer from a spectacular site, this elegant wine is brimming in tension and length. Delicate layers of Meyer lemon, Gravenstein apple and pear show an abundance on the palate, seasoned in salty oak, nutmeg and a hint of cardamom.

From another awesome vineyard in the Russian River, the 2017 Chardonnay Rochioli Vineyard is one of the richer, more powerful Chardonnay in the lineup. Medium gold-colored, with notes of sautéed orchard fruits, brioche, honeysuckle, and lemon curd, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, good acidity, and a mouthfilling texture that keeps you coming back. It actually gains freshness and vibrancy with time in the glass and is another age-worthy, brilliant Chardonnay from Ramey I'd be happy to have in the cellar.

The 2017 Chardonnay Rochioli Vineyard opens with toasty apples, gunflint, dried hay and a minerally undercurrent. Light to medium-bodied, the palate is super energetic with mineral-laced fruits, bright freshness and a long, textured finish.

The 2017 Chardonnay Rochioli Vineyard is overt, bold and racy. Orange confit, mint, butter, passionfruit and tropical overtones all meld together in this unctuous, flamboyant Chardonnay. This is a powerful, rich and deep wine that could use a bit of time in bottle to come around.