Patz & Hall, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay Dutton Ranch 2014

($44): Dutton Ranch, which consists of 1,100 acres of vineyards spread over the Russian River Valley that are owned or leased by the Dutton family, is a famous name in California wine.  Lots of top name California producers buy grapes from Dutton, including Patz & Hall who has hit the mark with this 2014 Chardonnay. Weighing in at 14.2 percent stated alcohol, it is beautifully integrated with a seamless marriage of fruit, oak and vibrancy.  It has a glossy texture without a trace of heaviness and with flavors that expand in the glass.  Despite its boldness, it’s an energetic wine.
93 Michael Apstein Jun 27, 2017