Ramey Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2023

95 points Decanter: "Sourced from Lafranchi, Westside Farms, Sonoma Foothills, Martinelli Laughlin, Kilcullen, Dutton Sebastopol, and Frank Johnson—all cool-climate sites with low-vigour soils such as Goldridge loam, planted between 1978 and 2017 and aged for 12 months on the lees in barrel (10% new French oak). This is clean and sleek, a beautifully balanced medium-bodied Chardonnay with luxuriously ripe stone and orchard fruit. Exotic baking spices complement layers of guava, white peach, and macerated mango with apricot. But what’s most impressive is the intensity and purity of the fruit—so precisely delineated, profoundly spicy, and laser-focused. At $50, this is one of the finest, most balanced, and well-structured Chardonnays from the Russian River Valley at this price point. Drinking window 2025-2035 (Jan 2025)"

94 points &'Highly Recommended' Wine Spectator: "Leaps out of the glass with intensity, offering vibrant fruit flavors of crisp Meyer lemon, apple and pear. Aromatic details of tangerine, lime sherbet and lemon blossoms add complexity alongside fresh herbal accents of lemon balm and sweetgrass. Crushed rock minerality lingers on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2039. (Apr 2025)"

94 points Jim Gordon (JamesSuckling.com): "Energetic acidity and ample fruit flavors give this full-bodied wine a sense of strength and structure. After a blast of green apple, pine bough and citrus aromas, an array of subtle baking spice, ripe pear and baked apple flavors come out as you sip. Drink now. (Apr 2025)"

94 points International Wine Report: "The 2023 Russian River Valley Chardonnay is a lovely wine, showcasing pretty aromas of lemon zest and crisp orchard fruits layered with subtle oak, flint and stone nuances. On the palate it offers wonderful vibrancy with gorgeous texture and weight, accented by flavors of fresh sliced apple, wet stones, vanilla, and a hint of toasted hazelnut. The wine’s vibrant acidity keeps it fresh and lively, while a smooth, slightly buttery finish adds richness without overwhelming the fruit. Drink 2025-2035 (Apr 2025)"