Sonoma Cutrer Les Pierres Chardonnay, 2016

Sonoma Cutrer's Les Pierres Vineyard is so named for the large rocks that line the vineyard, absorbing sunlight and slowly releasing heat to the vines. At the same time, there is a cool wind and fog, resulting in slow ripening and a long growing season. The result, in my opinion, is one of the best Charedonnays coming out of California.

Deep lemon yellow, showing some maturity. Intense aromas of lime, lemon zest and wet stone. Intense flavors of lemon curd with a hint of butter. A level of acidity I associate with French Chablis and Oregon Chardonnay accompanied by oak-associated spice. Powerful finish. 

Les Pierres ages well. We had a bottle from 1983 that was drinking well in 2021.