The 2022 Stone Cote Vineyard Chardonnay prances out of the glass with showy notes of honey-drizzled peaches, ripe apricots, and honeycomb with wafts of candied ginger and wet pebbles. The medium to full-bodied palate is packed with orchard fruit flavors supported by a refreshing line and silky texture, finishing on a chalky note. This wine was barrel fermented and aged in French oak. Native strains were used for alcoholic and malolactic fermentation and the wine is unfined and unfiltered. Stone Cote is sourced from a block within the Durell vineyard planted to Upper Barn selection and UCD 4. The site is an uplifted river bed.
95 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Apr 2024)
Stunning, bright and expressive, with notes of mango, pineapple and lemon curd on a succulent, intense frame. Details of orange blossoms and ripe melon, plus a sprinkle of crunchy sea salt, amplify the flavors. Grace notes of matcha, lemon verbena and lemongrass go on and on over the long finish. Drink now through 2034. 315 cases made.
94 points, MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator (Mar 2025)
Aromas of this wine jump out of the glass, offering Meyer lemon, apricot, white flowers and river rock. The palate vibrates with pithy lemon-lime acidity, alongside flavors of marzipan, fresh-baked pastry and Anjou pear. There's an energy here that begs for a little time in the cellar. Drink 2025–2035.
94 points, Tom R. Capo, Wine Enthusiast (Nov 2024)
The 2022 Chardonnay Stone Cote Vineyard comes from the Durell Vineyard and sports a youthful, ripe golden yellow hue. It’s ripe and generous on the nose, with notes of salted pineapple, marzipan, honeyed citrus, fresh peach, and a light hint of reduction. Opulent in texture and structure, it’s layered on the palate, with generous sunny fruit and a juicy feel, as well as a long finish, a bit of baking spice, and a tapered brightness. This decadent white will drink well over the next 5-7 years.
93 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2024)