Reviews & Ratings

2010 D R Stephens Chardonnay "Estate"

Winery: D R Stephens

Vintage: 2010

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Estate"

Wine Category: Chardonnay

Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $50

Cases produced: 398

KWG Score: 91.6 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (94)

Review date: June 21, 2012

Wine Review: This Excellent yellow colored Napa Chardonnay from D.R. Stephens opens with an inviting mild green apple bouquet with a hint of banana. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, viscous, slightly acidic and crisp. The flavor profile with is a delicious drawn butter and Bosc pear blend with hints of gentle new oak, lemon, and banana. The finish is dry and its refined finish is pleasant and lingers nicely. This Chard is very food friendly and would pair perfectly with Les Zygomates pan-seared rainbow trout with caramelized brown butter and toasted, sliced almonds and some roasted fingerling potatoes. It will not last long! Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: The D. R. Stephens Estate 2010 Chardonnay hails from the cool climates in the far southern reaches of the Napa Valley. The vines here struggle to ripen in the cool marine air, and produce Chardonnays with a vibrant, complex personality. Aromas of lemon curd, marzipan, flint, white pepper and jasmine rise from the glass. The palate is smooth and supple, with richness from lees stirring but with ample acidity to balance the fruit. The finish hints at Burgundy, but ultimately sways back to California with its ebullient character and sunny disposition.

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