2020 Paul Hobbs George Menini Estate Chardonnay [WA95][JD95][WS92]

"The 2020 Chardonnay George Menini Estate is a barrel sample of a brand new cuvée from Paul Hobbs, from a new vineyard they recently purchased and redeveloped, located in the Sebastopol Hills. A former apple orchard, they planted the sloping Goldridge soils with 37 acres of heritage selection Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. "I have no clue what the oak regimen will end up being," Paul Hobbs muses during our tasting together. "We made it the way we typically make our wines." Winemaker Jennie Murphy, who has been with Paul Hobbs for a decade, explains, "It's a new vineyard for us, so we have to figure out what we have. We will do lots of studies of blocks, clones, barrels, etc." This first look at the George Menini Chardonnay is promising. It offers scents of bruised apples, white peaches, citrus blossoms and new oak spices. Medium-bodied and textural, it has youthfully blocky fruits, integrated freshness and satisfying length. I'm excited to see what this new vineyard will bring to the Hobbs portfolio." 

"The 2020 Chardonnay George Menini Estate is lifted with fresh tarragon, flint, and candied green apple. The palate is all about its chalky mineral texture and vibrant energy. Not to confuse this with losing balance or feeling underripe, it has plenty of fruit, with lemon confit, fresh green apple, and a touch of warming baking spice. Allow another year or two in cellar and drink 2023-2034." 

"Yellow apple, dried pineapple and lemon meringue flavors are fresh and generous, accented with notes of nutmeg and orange sherbet and backed by vibrant acidity. Drink now through 2034." 

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