2008 Chardonnay, Hudson Vineyard, Napa-Carneros
Publication
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Author
Josh Raynolds
Date
May/June 2011
Rating
94
Review
Light, hazy yellow. High-pitched, pure aromas of Meyer lemon, green apple and honeysuckle, complicated by intense minerality and a hint of iodine. Incisive and focused on the palate, offering tangy citrus flavors and a strong undercurrent of smoky minerals. Very young and in need of some bottle age to stretch out but there's great potential here.
Publication
Robert M. Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate
Author
Robert Parker
Date
February 1, 2011
Rating
93
Review
The 2008 Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard exhibits honeyed citrus, smoky hazelnut and buttered brioche characteristics in a medium to full-bodied, flavorful, rich, layered format. It should drink nicely for 4-5 years.
Publication
Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine
Date
May 2011
Rating
95
Review
When it is right, Chardonnay from Lee Hudson's vineyard can rank with the very best in the state, and this latest working from David Ramey is right in so many ways. It is a very full and yet very well-balanced wine whose immense fruit and flamboyant oak combine for show-stopping richness, but it is its impeccable, acid-firmed structure that separates it from a good many other very rich Chardonnays and earns it this month's top honors. Its combination of complexity, vitality and fruity depth is bound to tempt early drinking, but collectors be warned, it will only get better with age.
Publication
Wine Spectator
Author
James Laube
Date
June 30, 2011
Rating
91
Review
Complex aromas of hazelnut, citrus blossom, spice and lemon meringue give this a tight flavor focus. This is medium-to full-bodied, with a long, clean, lingering finish. Drink now through 2017.
Publication
California Grapevine
Date
April-May 2011
Rating
92
Review
Medium-light golden yellow; attractive, forward, toasty, green apple aroma; full body; big, forward, plush, citrus and green apple flavors; well balanced and structured; lingering aftertaste. Shows intense fruit and complexity (as do the other two Ramey wines in this tasting). Very highly recommended.