2013 Chardonnay Kongsgaard
Kongsgaard’s Chardonnay has become one of California’s most iconic barrel-fermented whites, famed for its combination of power, nuance and longevity. The 2013 vintage — warm overall but with a long, even ripening period — delivered concentrated fruit that the winery shaped into a wine of both richness and tensile structure. This is Chardonnay that shows the expressive potential of thoughtful site selection and rigorous élevage.
On the nose, the wine opens with ripe citrus, baked apple and pear, layered with richer notes of crème brûlée, toasted almond and hints of vanilla and spice from extended oak ageing. There’s also a subtle mineral lift and a light floral touch that keeps the aromatics vibrant. The palate is full-bodied and intensely flavoured, with bold orchard and citrus fruit balanced by bright acidity and a taut saline thread. The texture is broad and almost creamy, yet the wine maintains clarity and drive through to a long, resonant finish that echoes citrus oil, spice and a whisper of hazelnut.
This is Chardonnay with presence and backbone — generous now with air or decanting, yet built to evolve gracefully over a long drinking window.
Corked Points: 96/100
