October 30, 2022 - Retail $50. Big. Ass. Bottle. Under cork. I have been a fan of Failla from the moment that I delved into American wine. In my book, Ehren Jordan is one of the top winemakers in this country and his wines are consistently among my favorites every year. I purchased this bottle at the winery nearly a decade ago, in March of 2013, and I decided tonight was the night to pop it. Why? Sunday? End of October? Evening? My point is that you should never wait for the perfect moment to open an amazing bottle--tomorrow it might be less amazing. Well, tonight, it was just that: amazing. Luscious citrus meringue, a hint of oak, and loads of deliciousness characterize both the nose and the palate on this incredible wine. Fabulous.
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April 5, 2020 - PnP. Great from the first pour. Stone fruit, honeysuckle, creme brulee. Medium high acidity. Nicely balanced and structured - I think this will easily last a few more years.
February 23, 2017 - Brought down to and drank at Atlantis, Bahamas.
As the temperature increased from refrigerator temp this wine improved. Overall I found mostly oak and mineral with minimal fruit. I may have waited too long on this one. Disappointing based on professional and CT scores as well as price paid.
Not a bad chardonnay by any means -- just didn't meet expectations.
October 27, 2016 - Fruit has faded, not very acidic but well balanced, light oak, lovely chardonnay
February 5, 2016 - An excellent balanced chardonnay.
February 25, 2015 - Consistently great chardonnay
May 11, 2014 - A pleasant, light chardonnay. Good acidity, a mineral aspect, not strong fruit, though its overall effect is "fruity"--just of a light bodied nature.
January 27, 2014 - Always great. Big fruit but balancing amount of oak. Definitely not your french cousin's chardonnay.
December 5, 2013 - Pale lemon color. Medium intensity nose with notes of lemon, white peach, green apple, honeysuckle, and bread dough. Medium plus body with a flavor profile which mirrors the nose, plus a hint of yoghurt. Nice, slightly oily mouthfeel which is balanced by nice, mouthwatering acidity. Long, citrus and slightly toasted bread finish. Very well balanced.
October 31, 2013 - Beautiful spice, subtle but toasty oak and creme brûlée. Best when it warms a bit.