Sometimes it is good to visit an old friend, and such was the case the other night when we opened a bottle of Rodney Strong Chalk Hill Chardonnay, which happens to be one of the Chardonnay Queen’s favorites.
I have not written about the Chalk Hill in three or four years, and the 2013 vintage is one of the best in a long time! The wines from the chalky white soil in the region remind me of the great white burgundies from Montrachet, with their strong mineral character and crisp, and somewhat steely taste.
This is a classic Chardonnay for an everyday price. The bouquet reminds one of a basket of apples fresh from the orchard, accompanied by a spray of wildflowers. The flavors are abundant with apple being the most assertive, with a touch of tropical fruit, graced by a hint of citrus in the background. This is a well- rounded Chardonnay which has the mineral backdrop characteristic of the chalky soil, and has a creamy mouth-feel leading into a crisp, but lingering finish. The alcohol content is 14%.
Adding the Rodney Strong Chalk Hill to a plate of Shrimp Scampi and fresh asparagus was delightful. This Chardonnay tastes like Chardonnay, which is not as common as it once was, and means that it would pair well with anything you enjoy with Chardonnay. Norm’s score is 91.
Score: 91
Price: $14 – $18
By: Norm Bentley
North Georgia Wine Advisor
normwine@bellsouth.net
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