Grgich Hills Chardonnay 2014

The combination of American Canyon and coolest southern Napa Valley Carneros vineyards always make this Grgich Hills chardonnay not merely one to watch but arguably the one to set in depeche mode as both benchmark and leader. No surprise this 2014 continues to reach out and touch faith. It’s a personal Jesus for the grape, the region and the world. That Mike Grgich set the standard with his 1976 judgement of Paris winning Montelena chardonnay is still no fluke, not that it ever was. The fruit, wood, acidity and texture gathering is not merely balanced and fortuitous it’s downright stylish. I considered 2013 to be a go to but 2014 goes further, with greater respect, humility and excellence. Drink 2019-2025. Tasted May 2018. Score – 94. (Michael Godel, winealign.com)