The 2021 Chardonnay George Menini Estate, matured for nine months in 27% new oak, is notably perfumed and energetic. The nose segues from iodine and saline to tones of panna cotta, lilac and yuzu, and the palate is stunning with its pairing of highly concentrated, layered flavors and fireworks of fresh acidity. It has a touch of anchoring textural grip, shimmery mineral character and a very long, expressive finish. It will be very long-lived in bottle. 639 cases were made.

This is a dense and very limey chardonnay, with lemon-curd and crushed-stone aromas and flavors. It’s full-bodied and foursquare, with a solid structure and intense flavors. A mouthful of fruit. Chunky. Honeysuckle and nettles at the end. Agile for a big wine. Drink now or hold.

The 2021 Chardonnay George Menini Estate is gorgeous. Bright and floral, the 2021 conveys energy and nuance, all in a mid-weight style that is quite appealing. Lemon oil, mint, white pepper and light tropical accents all grace this finely cut, expressive Chardonnay. The Menini Chardonnay is mostly Hyde and Mt. Eden clones.

This has terrific intensity to the juicy pear, nectarine and Fuji apple flavors, with abundant floral highlights and a crunchy note of sea salt on the fresh finish, where a hint of lemon verbena lingers. Drink now. 639 cases made.