Ultramarine Wines
Blanc de Blancs Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay
California, USA
@Delectable Wine : This is the new Ultramarine Michael Mara Vineyard Blanc de Blanc. I didn’t see it in the database.
I normally hold my Ultramarine a few years after release, but wanted to see how this new vineyard offering showed alongside the same vintage Charles Heintz BdB. Our group also opened a 2012 Ultramarine Charles Heintz BdN late disgorged.
Traditionally, I’ve found the Charles Heintz to show the classical vineyard expression of pure and ripe fruit, a small amount of oxidation of the fruit, and a distinct cream soda note. With that being said, the Michael Mara was quite different. Aromatically, it comes across like ripe Chablis. Much more lean and bright on the palate. Little bit of flint, lots of ripe lemon, Granny Smith apple, and a mineral/stony quality. Zippy acidity but the finish does pack a punch. Just like the other Ultramarine wines, this absolutely sports a great grower champagne vibe.
@Delectable Wine : This is the new Ultramarine Michael Mara Vineyard Blanc de Blanc. I didn’t see it in the database.
I normally hold my Ultramarine a few years after release, but wanted to see how this new vineyard offering showed alongside the same vintage Charles Heintz BdB. Our group also opened a 2012 Ultramarine Charles Heintz BdN late disgorged.
Traditionally, I’ve found the Charles Heintz to show the classical vineyard expression of pure and ripe fruit, a small amount of oxidation of the fruit, and a distinct cream soda note. With that being said, the Michael Mara was quite different. Aromatically, it comes across like ripe Chablis. Much more lean and bright on the palate. Little bit of flint, lots of ripe lemon, Granny Smith apple, and a mineral/stony quality. Zippy acidity but the finish does pack a punch. Just like the other Ultramarine wines, this absolutely sports a great grower champagne vibe.