Anderson Valley

This is from a northern California.  While I really enjoy the Rhys Chardonnay's, this is not as exuberant the ones from Santa Cruz.  Still, it is excellent.  Golden green in color.  The nose has vanilla, slight grapefruit and slight pineapple.  On the palate, this has a very nice texture.  Slightly viscous.  Nice underlying minerality.  The vanilla comes thru without being too overt.  Nice fruit.  This is drinking well now.  I don't think it will get better but should remain at this level for another five to seven years.  It drinks well on its own.  This will go well with lighter foods such

I love Rhys Chardonnays, however, this is not at their top level.  That said, it is half the price of those and this is very much in the style of those making this also a wine I love.  Golden/green in color.  The nose has vanilla and lemon curd with a nice minerality.  On the palate, this has a creamy texture.  Minerals with lemon curd.  Good acidity.  Long finish.  There is some oak showing here but not much.  It needs a bit of heft for a food pairing but will go nicely with heavier fish and fowl dishes.  Great on its own too.  

Purple in color.  The nose is great with black cherries, slight cola and a bit of roasted herbs.  On the palate, this has a great texture.  Black cherry fruit.  Very clean.  Still not yet at maturity, it may still have some upside.  Good balance with nice acidity.  Would work great with steakfish or fowl.  Rhys started commercially in 2004 and there wines have gotten better over time, but even the earlier ones seem to age quite well.