2019 Dragonette Chardonnay Ritas Crown

2019 Dragonette Chardonnay Rita’s Crown

2019 Dragonette Chardonnay Rita’s Crown This is insanely good Chardonnay. Dragonette was started in 2005 by brothers John and Steve Dragonette and their buddy Brandon Gillis. They had all worked in one of the finest wine stores in LA where they got the bug to make wine. They spent several years seeking the finest single vineyard in Northern Santa Barabara County. Their wines have been getting huge press making world class Chardonnay, Pinot and Sauvignon Blanc. They have absolutely nailed it with their Dragonette Chardonnay Rita’s Crown 2019.

The Rita’s Crown vineyard is located at one of the highest points in the Sta. Rita Hills, adjacent to such famous sites as Mt Carmel and Sea Smoke. Dragonette obtains their Chardonnay from two steeply pitched blocks with west and southwest facing slopes which are regularly buffeted by high winds and engulfed in fog. These wines are well known for their tropical fruits which is the first thing I noticed with Chard, the incredible tropical fruits. The wine got a monster 96+pts from Parkers WA and is definitely at the upper echelon of top California Chardonnay. Wine will blow you away as it did me!

ROBERT PARKER’S WINE ADVOCATE 96+ POINTS – “The 2019 Chardonnay Rita’s Crown Vineyard is singular and expressive this vintage. Aromas of apricot, candied lime and dried herbs are accented by tones of beeswax and candle smoke. The palate offers dynamic movement between satiny, expansive fruit and bursts of tangy acidity, finishing with incredible length. This should be long lived in the cellar.”

JEB DUNNUCK 95 POINTS – “Even better, the 2019 Chardonnay Rita’s Crown Vineyard offers another level of richness without compromising on purity or focus. Lemon, ripe orchard fruits, iodine, and chalky mineral notes all flow to a medium-bodied Chardonnay with good acidity and a long, layered profile on the palate. Aged 18 months in a mix of small and larger barrels (30% new), it’s another head-turning good wine from this team.”