Cobb H. Klopp Vineyard Chardonnay 2018

“The 2018 Chardonnay H. Klopp Vineyard is another attractive wine in this range. Pear, white, flowers, mint and chalk give the Klopp notable aromatic presence. The mix of Wente and Mt. Eden clones works so well. Time in the glass is so beneficial in letting the wine’s open. There is plenty to look forward to. Drinking window: 2022-2028. 92 points

This is a set of very pretty 2018s from Katy Wilson. The Pinots are especially strong. As always, the wines are done in a restrained style with relatively long elevage in mostly neutral oak. Stem inclusion is a vintage to vintage decision, but the Pinots here generally see only a small amount of whole clusters. I find the Chardonnays a bit severe in 2018. They show good energy, but are a touch light in the mid-palate. Sadly, there will be no 2020 vintage for LaRue.”

Antonio Galloni, Vinous (03/21)