Decanter Panel tasting: US Chardonnay - ABS Wines
ABS Wine Agencies, Tue 26 Sep 2023
Two ABS wines were featured in the Decanter Panel tasting: US Chardonnay in the September 2023 issue
Grgich Hills Estate, Napa Valley, California 2020 - 95 Points
RS - 96, EE - 93, BG - 95
Mike Grgich, who turned 100 in April 2023, emigrated from Croatia to California in 1958 and worked his way up as a winemaker until, in 1973, he produced the Chateau
Montelena Chardonnay that triumphed in the 1976 Judgement of Paris tasting. His own winery, then Grgich Hills Cellar, was founded as a partnership in 1977. Grown near San Pablo Bay, the estate Chardonnay is fermented and aged in barrels and foudres, 40% of which are new French oak.
RS - Gunflint reductive nose with green cardamom, cucumber skin, oyster shell and seaweed. Smoky subtle oak. Lean, tight and mineral.
EE - Hints of citrus and caramel with a touch of vanilla on the nose. Creamy and vibrant with beautiful citrus and balanced acidity.
BG - Struck match, toast and lime aromas. The palate is firm and citrussy, holding tight through a citrus and pineapple finish.
Drink 2023-2030 Alc 13.5% - View our tasting note here
Hanna, Russian River Valley, Calfornia 2020 - 91 Points
RS - 93, EE - 89, BG - 91
Lime leaf, pea shoots, lemon and green apple aromas. Big and full with a Meursault-like elegance, rich mango, apricot and fresh figs. Drink 2023-2030 Alc 14% - View our tasting note here