Professional reviews
Robert Parker (92)
The 2023 Chardonnay Extra Tan Dupee Vineyard was harvested in early November, after around 50% to 60% of the fruit had been affected by botrytis. “It was rain, sun, rain, sun, so if you had fruit, you could stretch deep into October,” proprietor and winemaker Jim Maresh explains. “A lot of whites were getting cool botrytis development.” It has distinctive aromas of candied peaches, honey, gingersnap and saffron. Fermented to dryness, the palate is satiny and rich with layered, savory flavors, fresh acidity and a softly grippy finish. Reminiscent of Alsace in style, it will be a great addition to the table over the winter holidays.
James Suckling (96)
Another white made with partially botrytized grapes. Firmly structured, yet seamlessly integrated, this needs time to fully reveal its layers. Lush and complex, yet delicately subtle and precise at the same time, offering aromas of passion fruit and pink guava, layered with hints of seashells and white berries, while a flinty edge adds depth. The botrytis influence is clean and subtle, contributing a refined touch. White-tea nuances provide an elegant layer and the palate shows balance between tense chalkiness and silky smoothness. Drink or hold.
Jancis Robinson (17)
Sweet and polished on the nose. A real mouthful of pleasure and apparently the ability to develop quite a bit in bottle. (JR)
Vinous (94)
The 2023 Chardonnay Dupee Vineyard Extra Tan is nearly smoky in the best possible way, mixing crushed nectarines and apricots with kiwi and a hint of candied citrus. It feels weighty, with a reverberation of zesty acidity to balance and masses of citrus-infused orchard fruits that sweep across the palate, leaving a saline mineral saturation. Savory herbal tones echo on the palate and leave you salivating for more.
