Aubert - Chardonnay Lauren Estate 2021

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Planted on the site of a former orchard in 1999–2000, the 2021 Chardonnay Lauren Estate includes four different selections of Chardonnay (Hyde Old Wente, Montrachet, Mount Eden and Hudson), all barrel-fermented and aged in 80% new French oak. Scents of crushed stone, white peaches, ripe pineapples and fresh lime all appear on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is plush and opulent, concentrated yet incredibly long, vibrant and mouthwatering on the finish. This is really special, a true "wow" wine that—at least for this taster—sets a new standard for how good California Chardonnay can be."

LISA PERROTTI-BROWN: "The nose on the 2021 Chardonnay Lauren Estate is so intoxicatingly powerful and gorgeous, with notes of orange blossoms, creme brulee, crystallized peel, lime cordial, and allspice, plus suggestions of acacia honey and dried persimmons. The full-bodied palate is magic - sparkling in the mouth with citrus, spice, and mineral accents, finishing with incredible length and depth. Lauren Estate, named after Mark Aubert's daughter, comes from a complex vineyard planted to four different clones: two old Wente clones, Mt Eden, and Corton Charlemagne."

JAMES SUCKLING: "Salty, lemon rind, lemon curd, stone, and blackboard chalk. Full-bodied. Tight, layered and really fine. Extremely long and compressed. Wonderful sophistication. Drink or hold."

WINE SPECTATOR: "Salted butterscotch accents make the apple, citrus and peach flavors pop on this white's plump and generous frame. Offers a juicy thread of acidity, with details of mango, marzipan and spicy wildflower honey that linger on the finish. Drink now through 2034. 1,150 cases made."