Eric Kent Chardonnay Russian River Valley Luke's Grove 2017

Russian River Valley, California Wine Spectator 91 points! "Fresh, with floral components to the vibrant flavors of fresh-cut apple, white cherry and ripe pear. The focused finish offers plenty of butter accents and spicy richness. Drink now through 2023. 242 cases made."--KM, Wine Spectator, 91 points! Lush, immediately approachable and undeniably delicious, Luke's Grove is often our Chardonnay ambassador for EK newbies and long timers alike. While we continue to fine-tune it in the vineyards and the cellar, it remains a quintessential Russian River Valley illustration of this varietal and our most widely popular since we introduced it way back in 2004. Kent and Hanna have been especially focused on barrel selections over the last five years, looking for wood that perfectly supports and enhances the fruit. Now mostly comprised of Stiling Vineyard fruit, we chose to pick this vineyard in several stages to provide both ripeness and natural acidity. A small 4% addition of Fallenleaf Vineyard (new to the blend) lends the Old Wente clone's custardy bass notes while another 4% of Green Acres Vineyard Hyde clone contributes both texture and verve.--Eric Kent The artistic label features a local artist in The Eric Kent Permanent Collection. Enjoy Eric Kent Chardonnay over the next 4-5 years with roast chicken, grilled swordfish, ratatouille and cheeses.