DuMol Chardonnay Russian River Valley Chloe 2012

96 points Robert Parker: "There are 1,020 cases of the 2012 Chardonnay Chloe (14.2% natural alcohol) which is sourced from the Ritchie Vineyard and represents the oldest vines, having been planted in 1972. It sees about 45% new French oak but you would never know that based on the sensational richness, texture and flavor profiles where the oak plays a minor role. Copious notes of white peach, apricot marmalade, honeysuckle, brioche and subtle hazelnuts jump from the glass of this beauty. Good acidity buttresses the wine’s broad, powerful mouthfeel, providing freshness as well as delineation. It should drink well for a decade or more. Drink: 2014-2025. (Dec 2014)"

94 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Soft, floral and lifted, the 2012 Chardonnay Chloe Ritchie Vineyard is all about understatement and class. Nothing in particular stands out; rather it is the wine's exceptional balance that is front and center. Soft, nuanced and wonderfully expressive in the glass, the 2012 is a winner. White peach, pear, white flowers and mint are laced into the soft, inviting finish. (Jan 2015)"

92 points and 'Very highly recommended,' California Grapevine: "Medium-light to medium golden yellow; attractive, forward, apple, stone fruit, and mandarin orange aroma with hints of brioche, ginger, and lemon curd; medium to medium-full body; rich, fleshy, slightly viscous, apple, citrus, and stone fruit flavors with bright acidity and a slight creaminess in the mouthfeel; lingering aftertaste. 14.2% alcohol; 1,000 cases; 100% barrel fermentated; 100% malolactic fermentation; released September 2014. (Feb 2015)"

92 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "Yet another outstanding effort in DuMOL's 2012 Chardonnay portfolio, this time from the storied Kent Ritchie Vineyard, the "chloe" is a precise, keenly focused working that impresses for both its richness and its great energy. It is firm, full-bodied and exceptionally well-balanced with a light trim of toast to its very pure fruit, and, while deep and expressive, it is still on the tight side in structure. It is a wine that deserves a special place in the cellars, and it is certain to make converts of those skeptics who doubt Chardonnay's potential to age. (Jan 2015)"