Paul Hobbs Richard Dinner Vineyard Chardonnay 2018

Last of the Chardonnay and first made in 1991, the 2018 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard comes from a vineyard in the Sonoma Mountain AVA and spent 15 months in 53% new French oak. It's certainly the most exotic Chardonnay in the lineup, with a complex bouquet of Meyer lemons, flower oil, toasted spice, candle wax, and honeyed citrus. Rich, full-bodied, and stacked on the palate, it has loads of fruit, vibrant acidity, and a great finish. It's another powerful, concentrated Chardonnay.

The 2018 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard is quite floral and perfumed in this vintage. Jasmine, white pepper, mint and lemon peel give the 2018 a brilliant aromatic upper register. In most vintages the Richard Dinner Chardonnay is distinguished by more of a phenolic character, but the 2018 is all about lift and energy.

Still in barrel, the 2018 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard opens slightly rubbery and with coiled aromas at this stage. It takes some time to give up musk and floral blossoms over spiced pears, quince, stone and spices. Medium to full-bodied, it's restrained in the mouth with crunchy, floral-laced fruits, well-woven freshness and a long finish. This just needs time. 481 cases are expected to be made and released in March 2020.

Custardy aromas are matched to apple pastry, dried apricot and pear tart flavors in this lusciously spicy style. The creamy richness extends to light buttery notes on the finish. Drink now through 2025. 481 cases made.