![Ridge Estate Chardonnay 2023, 12x75cl [in bond ex vat] ETA August/Sept. 2025](http://www.tauruswines.co.uk/cdn/shop/products/RidgeChard_{width}x.jpg?v=1618398439)
Chardonnay
12 x 75cl * 14% ABV * Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA
Ridge's first vines were planted in 1885, but it took almost 100 years for the producer to wow the world: its wines swept the board at Steven Spurrier's 1976 Judgement of Paris competition. Ever since, Ridge has produced wines that have been rightfully regarded alongside the finest Bordeaux blends and Burgundy's top whites.
The first Chardonnay came out of Ridge's cellar in 1962 from fully mature vineyards planted in the 1940s. A string of great vintages evidenced that the cool climate and limestone sub-soils were ideally suited to the variety. Showing somewhat more restraint than you might expect if you haven't had the fortune to try these wines before, the pale, straw-like colour hints at the relatively cool climate. Aromas of melon, green apple and white peach. Lemon zest, green apple and honeysuckle follow through to the palate, which is soft and rounded and braced with juicy acidity and saline notes. Fantastically tense and energetic. Drink now to 2032.
Please note that prices are in-bond and exclude Duty and VAT, which are payable when the wines land.