Ramey 2012 Chardonnay Russian River
I have reviewed several Ramey Wine Cellars offerings, now I will discuss one of their 2012 Chardonnay’s. Ramey Wine Cellars crafts outstanding quality wines that are both delicate and magnificent and comes from some of the finest Sonoma vineyards. Ramey selects vineyards for their ability to continue producing the highest quality fruit. David and his wife Carla founded Ramey Wine Cellars in 1996 after spending time at Matanzas Creek, Chalk Hill, Dominus and Rudd. Ramey Wine Cellars is located in Healdsburg, in the heart of the California wine country. Ramey’s varietals are basically Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Syrah. Since Ramey is a “Fine” winery, I will continue to review their wines.
The 2012 Chardonnay comes from grapes grown at Dutton Ranches (35%), Martinelli Vineyards (17%), King (15%), Rochioli (11%), Forchini (9%), Hudson (5%), Ritchie (4%), Green Pastures (3%), and Hyde (1%) Vineyards. The blend ages on 18% new French and Hungarian oak for approximately 12 months, (note the 2011 vintage received 25% new oak). Pouring a glass I notice a nice, slightly pale, golden yellow color, with aromas of sweet stone fruit. The palate shows an intense flavor and depth of ripe fruit flavors, apricots, peaches, some tropical fruit and a slight nutty spice character. The finish, little more buttery than the 2011, has a delicate mineral touch with fragrant oak. Another very well done wine! An absolute joy to drink! Should be great to Sip this Fine Wine over the next couple of years, but don’t wait, you will miss something remarkable!
Cheers!