2021 CHEV Chardonnay Russian River Valley

DEC95 This wine displays a lemon-gold hue with green flecks. The aromatics are incredibly fresh, featuring wet river stones, exotic white floral notes, and freshly cut ginger. Medium- to full-bodied, it offers remarkable staying power with dense notes of lemon, lemon oil, and beautiful stony minerals, accompanied by subtle flinty undertones. The finish is long and layered, driven by acidity. The acidity rushes in after the creamy citrus fruit dissolves, leaving you with bright, spicy acid tension and a wealth of exotic baking spices and absolutely firing on all cylinders. The wine underwent fermentation in a combination of 7% concrete egg, 15% concrete amphora, 41% new French oak, 24% once-filled French oak, and 13% several-times-used French oak. It was then aged for 15 months in 41% new French oak, 24% once-used French oak, 13% several-times-used French oak, and 22% concrete vessels. CHEV is a project from Kosta Browne co-founder Michael Browne and his wife, Sarah Browne. The label was introduced in 2013, after they established CIRQ, focusing on Pinot Noir from their stunning 6-hectare estate and winery in the heart of the Russian River Valley. In 2024, Cabell Coursey joined the team to elevate their craft further.
JD94 Bright straw/yellow-colored, the 2021 Chardonnay Russian River Valley may be the best example of this wine to date. The nose is very nicely done, initially offering ripe fresh pineapple and lemon candy notes, but as it opens, it becomes more peppery, with a very pretty floral note and hint of orange creamsicle on the back palate. Long on the palate, it’s showing very, very well now and is going to drink well over the coming 6-8 years.
JS92 Light and subtle aromatics lead to a lacy, elegant texture and beautiful, creamy, subtle fruits, vanilla bean and baking spices. Fermented in a variety of containers, such as French barrels, amphorae and a concrete egg. Full-bodied yet not full-blown, it shows restraint but richness and depth. Drink now or hold.