Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Francis Coppola Director's Cut Chardonnay 2008


Using Russian River fruit, we crush the grapes whole-cluster and ferment entirely in French oak barrels to produce a wine with a seductive, round texture and notes of sweet vanilla. Not only does this technique create a lavish character, it works to highlight the green apple, honeysuckle, and citrus flavors, which are the hallmark of Russian River vineyards.

A very interesting Chardonnay, and easily worth the price. It was fermented in %0% new Frenech oak, which gives it a creamy, smoky richness, while the underlying fruit flavors are ripe and rewarding, suggesting pineapples, Asian pears, green apples and Meyer lemons. A beautiful, complex and balanced wine. Editors' Choice.

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