The 2018 Chardonnay Estate Reserve continues to exude class with its irresistible citrus and limestone aromas, and maybe a touch more lime now. The beautifully balanced palate offers orange zest and white peach and a razor-sharp, Meursault (Premier Cru)-like finish. Sublime.
94 points, Vinous (April 2021)
The 2018 Estate Reserve Chardonnay was tasted again during my Vinous Live chat with winemaker/owner Samantha O'Keefe. It reminded me of what a brilliant Chardonnay this is. The nose bursts with yellow plum, orange pith and crushed stone, perhaps even more similar to a Premier Cru Burgundy than before. The palate has exquisite balance, poised yet intense, with white peach, orange peel and superb salinity on the finish that urges you back for another sip. Brilliant.
94 points, Vinous (February 2021)
The 2018 Estate Reserve Chardonnay is aged for 11 months in 500-liter barrels, 30% new oak. It has a little more amplitude on the nose compared to the 2017 Chardonnay, and its aromas of citrus fruit, wet limestone and orange zest unfold gently. The palate is very well balanced with a fine line of acidity that cuts through the intense orange zest, apricot and white peach fruit. This is taut and wonderfully focused with just the right amount of salinity on the finish. Outstanding.
94 points, Vinous (November 2019)
Sam O'Keefe's Reserve bottling all comes from her picturesque estate in Greyton and is an impressive wine in 2018. The wood is better integrated than it was in the previous release, possibly because of the use of 40% malolactic fermentation. Citrus, pear and passion fruit flavours are supported by minerality, stony acidity and subtle wood spices. Delicious.
95 points
