In the heart of the Russian River Valley, Paul Hobbs has crafted a masterpiece with his 2018 Chardonnay, a radiant tribute to the region’s unique terroir. This Chardonnay, awarded 93 points by both Wine Advocate and James Suckling, opens with a pale straw hue that glistens in the glass, setting the stage for an enchanting sensory journey.

The nose entices with a delicate bouquet of white florals, a hint of ground ginger, and the bright zest of Mandarin orange. Upon the first sip, flavors of Golden Delicious apple and Meyer lemon dance on the palate, paving the way for a tantalizing complexity of baking spice and a subtle piecrust note. This interplay of flavors contributes to a round, velvety texture, elegantly balanced by a refreshing acidity that frames the wine’s long, satisfying finish.

Crafted with meticulous care, this Chardonnay is the result of hand-harvested grapes, whole-cluster pressing, and barrel fermentation with indigenous yeasts over 10 months. A spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrel further enhances its complexity, and 11 months of aging in French oak barrels, with 43% new oak, imparts subtle oak-inspired nuances. Bi-weekly bâtonnage during aging on lees adds depth and character. The wine remains unadulterated, unfined, and unfiltered, bottled in January 2020.

Paul Hobbs Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2018 is a testament to the artistry of its namesake winemaker and the terroir of this renowned region, a wine that captivates from the first swirl to the final, lingering note.