WS Top 100 Wine #69
From six special acres in the heart of the Grace Benoist Ranch, Etude Estate Chardonnay is truly representative of all that is captivating about Carneros. A delightful expression of Chardonnay, that is elegant and restrained, crafted with the intention to showcase the fruit and terroir, so there is no malolactic fermentation and the lightest touch of oak. Intriguing aromas of white floral blossom, citrus and toast pique interest, while layered flavors of stone-fruit, citrus peel, Golden Delicious apple and Honeydew melon are interwoven together, demonstrating a sinuously savory minerality, a signature from Grace Benoist Ranch. Abundant mouth-watering acidity, balanced with tremendous structure and a soft, round texture all enhance this “whisper of a Chardonnay”, and are hallmarks of the classic signature of this wine each vintage.
Silky and energetic in the mouth, offering juicy Meyer lemon, Anjou pear and buttered toast flavors
The 2021 Greco di Tufo Vigna Cicogna (with 26,000 bottles made) opens to a golden straw color with orchard fruit aromas that give the wine a softly textured personality and good length. Those primary tones of apricot and peach are framed by delicate hints...
Sleek and generous, with appealing cherry and red currant flavors accented with tobacco and dusty spices. Drink now through 2031. 4,113 cases made.
Snappy and vibrant, with fresh cherry and raspberry flavors accented by toasty spices and cedar, finishing with refined tannins. Drink now through 2030. 14,500 cases made.
Aromatically expressive and handsomely structured, this red offers precise flavors of blackberry and cherry framed by black olive, smoked meat and cracked pepper tones as this gathers richness on the finish. Drink now through 2032. 702 cases made.