Kongsgaard
The Judge Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley, California, USA
“Perfectly rounded” was what first came to mind when I drank this. Rich and opulent, yet incredibly seamless. Even in its youth, the mealy and creamy vanilla oak character did not feel out of place, especially against the preserve-like fruits ranging from lemons to apricots. Expectedly long with a dense glycerol-like texture, savoury finish, and energising acidity. Not typically a style that I’d rave about, but credit where credit’s due, the concentration, texture, and oak quality were all remarkable. CW even went so far to say that it was Monty-like, and I’m certain he isn’t the first nor last person to make such a claim. However, we too noted that the warmth and lack of verticality in structure was a dead giveaway of its Napa origin. A contemplative wine of great presence at this point, but probably needs another decade or more to be truly digestible.
“Perfectly rounded” was what first came to mind when I drank this. Rich and opulent, yet incredibly seamless. Even in its youth, the mealy and creamy vanilla oak character did not feel out of place, especially against the preserve-like fruits ranging from lemons to apricots. Expectedly long with a dense glycerol-like texture, savoury finish, and energising acidity. Not typically a style that I’d rave about, but credit where credit’s due, the concentration, texture, and oak quality were all remarkable. CW even went so far to say that it was Monty-like, and I’m certain he isn’t the first nor last person to make such a claim. However, we too noted that the warmth and lack of verticality in structure was a dead giveaway of its Napa origin. A contemplative wine of great presence at this point, but probably needs another decade or more to be truly digestible.
Jul 31st, 2022
Not normally a fan of this style but this was dope. The butter is balanced on a knife edge by fresh fruit and minerality. Long and luscious.
Not normally a fan of this style but this was dope. The butter is balanced on a knife edge by fresh fruit and minerality. Long and luscious.
Mar 20th, 2022
Good Lord. This is such special stuff. Still lots of time - a decade perhaps. Endlessly fascinating, decadent mouthfeel.
Good Lord. This is such special stuff. Still lots of time - a decade perhaps. Endlessly fascinating, decadent mouthfeel.
Dec 26th, 2021
