Rombauer Chardonnay Carneros 2023

93 points Jonathan Cristaldi (Decanter): "The fruit for this Chardonnay comes from Napa and Sonoma Carneros. Barrel-fermented and aged for nine months in a mix of American and French oak, one-third of which is new. This wine impresses with its richness, creamy vanilla, and buttery brioche notes on the nose—never over the top—building into a fleshy, layered palate balanced by excellent acidity, with a pH of around 3.4 and 6.2 TA. Candied ginger peel, rich citrus, and tangerine peel lead into baked pineapple notes on a very long, saline-mineral finish—a true crowd-pleaser, perfect with roast chicken and potatoes or roast pork. Oklahoma-born and raised, Andrew Holloway began his winemaking journey as an intern at Rombauer in 2010. His talent and dedication saw him rise to assistant winemaker in 2014, and in 2023, he was named winemaker. Drinking Window: 2025-2033. (2/26/25)"

91 points James Suckling: "This is a lush, ripe, relaxed classic with generous poached pear and peach pie flavors. Full-bodied, rich in fruit and spice flavors, with butter and caramel accents. All barrel fermented, with hand-stirred lees and full malolactic. Reasonable acidity and a super-relaxed texture. Drink now. (1/9/25)"

Producer notes: "Aromas of ripe peach and melon are found on the nose, interspersed with bright citrus notes. These continue to the palate where they are met by flavors of creamy vanilla and buttery nuances on the long finish. Rombauer’s signature bright acidity is evident throughout each sip, balancing the softness of the midpalate."