“The winemaker at this small, boutique operation is Jeff Pisoni… and several of them are absolutely spectacular offerings.” – Robert Parker

We literally had to PRY this one out of Agent Noir’s hands just to get a taste.

Like Gollum with his “precious”, he held tightly to this sample, even taking the second one, and vanished with BOTH bottles to the safety of his home to drink them by himself.

Luckily, we can buy our own, which we are doing by the case…

It’s everything he loves in a Chardonnay. Oceanview grapes that struggle to ripen, big, bold, juicy, and oh so complex. Made by a favorite winemaker who believes in the Burgundy way of winemaking. It sure does help to be a winery that named itself Fort Ross back in 1988 A full 23 years before its appellation, Fort-Ross Seaview was carved out of Sonoma Coast as a true stretch of coastal wilderness.

It is after all the neighborhood of Marcassin, Martinelli, Flowers, Boar’s View, Hirsch, Flowers, Peter Michael, and Red Car with labels that cost $100+ typically. Experiencing this “extreme” terroir under $30 is rare as can be.

According to Wine Spectator “With its rugged landscape, wind and fog, the coast is Sonoma’s most untamed wine growing region… The scenery is so striking, however, that you won’t mind exploring. Venture off the beaten path for an authentic taste of the true Sonoma Coast… Located one ridge away from the Pacific Ocean and with vineyards planted at elevations of between 1,200 and 1,700 feet, Fort Ross is literally on the edge of Sonoma’s viticultural map. Owners Linda and Lester Schwartz began planting their vineyards in 1992. The Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays show a distinctive combination of crisp acidity and fleshy texture. Talented winemaker Jeff Pisoni joined the team in 2009.”

The ripe mango, citrus oil, lemon blossom, and crushed rock-scented perfume grabs your attention with subtle hints of oak and distinctive minerality. Full-bodied with bright acidity and superb purity, hazelnut, brioche, pure decadent honeyed pineapple, and orange blossom define the impossible to stop sipping palate, The full-bodied mouthfeel lingers with scintillating vibes on the long, long finish.

We challenge you not to finish the bottle… but first you have to secure what you can.

92 Points – Decanter “Palate and nose show concentrated aromas and flavours of pear, lychee and Madagascar vanilla bean with a zesty bright acidity that persists from mid-palate to the long lingering finish. Well integrated, bright and creamy, and perfectly balanced with a richness in texture and mouthfeel. Drink 2022-2025.”

92 Points – James Suckling “A succulent, well-rounded and citrusy Chardonnay. Notes of baked lemons, white peaches, flower honey and white flowers on the nose. Medium-bodied with moderate acidity. Flavorful and well-composed, with energy and control. Good volume and focused toward the finish with a baked lemon aftertaste. Drink or hold.”