Black Emerald Vineyard Chardonnay 2014
Russian River
Reviews
90
Terroirist
Pale yellow color. Aromas: steely, white flowers, nettle, lemon pith, with richer elements of honeycomb, apricot and orange marmalade. On the palate: pleasant but balanced creaminess, vibrant acidity, a medium-bodied frame (13.5% alcohol). Apricot, orange, kiwi, sliced green apples, all of it topped with chalk, floral perfume, mixed nuts and hay. Complex and flavorful but it stays zesty and driven by minerals. Lots to unpack with this wine. 10 months in 40% new French oak.
History runs deep at this 17-acre vineyard on Vine Hill Road in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Back in the 1960s, Sonoma County legend Duff Bevill planted the parcel to the old Clone 4 of Chardonnay. These grapes still grow today, though now the owners are Dennis and Mary Black, and the land is called Black Emerald Vineyard. Because this vineyard is dry-farmed, raising the canopy away from the heat of the ground during the day helps moderate the cluster temperature. At night, this strategy also helps keep clusters dry.
Aromas such as juicy apples and pomegranate are balanced expertly in this opulent wine. On the palate, The Bombardier evokes earthiness, and has fresh acidity and a firm structure. The finish is just as memorable, with fruit-forward flavors—a true California-style Chardonnay.
Aromas such as juicy apples and pomegranate are balanced expertly in this opulent wine. On the palate, The Bombardier evokes earthiness, and has fresh acidity and a firm structure. The finish is just as memorable, with fruit-forward flavors—a true California-style Chardonnay.
| Appellation | Russian River | |
| Vineyard | Black Emerald | |
| Farming Method | Sustainable | |
| Aging/Cooperage | 43% New French Oak, 10 months | |
| Release Date | Spring 2016 | |
| Alcohol | 13.5% | |
| Production | 141 cases |