Medlock Ames Lower Slope Chardonnay 2018

Oaky chard gets such a bad rap. Whiff a bit of barrel age, and some people turn their noses north. But there's such intricacy and precision that goes into the process - it's hard for me not to swoon. And I get it, the flavors aren't fruit-forward. But if you can look beyond and appreciate the mouthfeel and texture that barrel aging delivers - it's an entirely new kind of Chardy party. Lower Slope Chardonnay from Medlock Ames shows this notion seamlessly. 100% barrel fermented and 60% aged for 11 months in new French oak, this wine is full-bodied and plush, offering subtle notes of citrus alongside ripe pear, baked red apple, toasty cinnamon and (nearly) brown butter. A rich and lengthy finish highlights the elegant play with acidity, not letting you forget that it has a crisp and playful side too. Tasted September 2021.

Process: 20% fermented and aged in stainless steel; remainder ten months fermented and aged in French oak barrels (40% new).

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