Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards Chardonnay 2007

Professional Ratings

• 96 Connoisseurs' Guide
  These two Chardonnays, from the new Phelps-developed effort out near the Pacific Ocean in an area that seems certain to gain great fame for its deep yet tight and complex wines, are nothing short of stellar accomplishments. They have succeeded in being deep and layered without resorting to high ripeness, and they possess the enlivening acidity that has become part and parcel of the new Chardonnay paradigm in California. This wine comes with a slight haze in its appearance and, like the best efforts of that genre, its fruit is sweet and pulpy, deep and vital all at the same time. Long, fruity, tart, tight and promising to gain greater range over time, this wine is about as good as it gets and joins a very select list of our favorite wines.
• 93 Wine Enthusiast
  Quite a good Chardonnay, made from Freestone’s vineyards in the chilly southwestern part of the appellation, where coastal winds sweep in. Acidity and minerality give structure to the pineapple, honeysuckle, crème brûlée and buttered toast flavors. Drink this elegant wine now with upscale fare.
• 91 Wine Spectator
  Sleek and spicy, with a mix of tangerine, citrus and orange zest that's intense, vibrant, complex and earthy. Full-bodied, offering floral scents and a hint of mineral. Drink now through 2016.
• 91 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  The light gold-colored 2007 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast (from Goldridge soils) exhibits plenty of buttery citrus, orange rind and honeysuckle characteristics intermixed with hints of smoky oak and hazelnuts. This Burgundian-styled, medium to full-bodied Chardonnay possesses enough acidity to balance its bold, concentrated style. It should age nicely for 5-7 years.
  91+ points.