From a 500ml bottle (which is a great size for a white wine) as part of their futures program. Golden in color, a bit deeper in tone (oak?). The nose is classic Rhys, lemon curd, vanilla, slight citrus and spice. Full bodied. Crisp acidity. On the palate, this is delicious. Lemon Cream, vanilla, and spice. Dry. Long finish. This is wonderful on its own and went quite well with Garlic Hummus and assorted veggies. Drink over the next ten years (in this format).
Rhys is one of my favorite wines and this particular bottle was opened at a dinner alongside an Aubert and a Marcassin from the same vintage. It was interesting for a few reasons. It really demonstrated the "Burgundyness" of the Rhys wines. It also showed that Rhys can hold its own against the best Chardonnays California produces. It has a silvery green/gold color. The nose has nice lemon cream and vanilla with underlying minerality. Great mouthfeel and texture. On the palate, the lemon cream with a touch of vanilla comes thru. With air some green apple notes emerge. Great balance.
Another example of why Rhys is one of my favorite Chardonnay's from anywhere. Light golden in color with slight green hues. Clear and bright. The nose is gorgeous with lemon curd, minerality, and vanilla. Full bodied. Solid acidity. On the palate those flavors carry thru. Lemon curd and vanilla with great minerality. Just delicious. The bottle is drained quickly. Long finish. These drink so beautifully young, they do shut down a bit after a few years and then re-open at around age 7 to 10 for another decade. Great on their own, these work great with crisp or lighter foods.
