Arista Winery Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2018 (750ML)

94 Points, Erin Brooks, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2018 Chardonnay Russian River Valley comes from declassified barrels from Arista's single-vineyard program in addition to some purchased fruit. Made with about 15% new oak, the nose features toasty yellow apples, jasmine, honey and a streak of graphite. The satiny palate manages full, ripe fruits and fresh lift, finishing with great length and an alluring hint of matchstick." 11/21

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2018 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is a powerful, tightly wound wine, which is surprising for a year in which most wines are pretty open. Crushed rocks, mint, lemon confit and white pepper all open in the glass. The 2018 is translucent and yet t also packs a pretty huge punch of both fruit and structure. I would give it a few years in bottle to relax." 01/21

92 Points, Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator: "Baked apple, pear tart and dried apricot flavors glide across the palate, with lemon curd accents. Shows light buttery and spicy accents on the plush finish. Drink now through 2025. 1,500 cases made." 07/21

93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com: "Starting off with the appellation 2018 Chardonnay Russian River Valley from Arista, this smoking Chardonnay would be ideal for readers trying to understand the style of Arista as well as the overall quality of this estate. Offering up a light golden hue as well as a beautiful perfume of stone fruits, pear, honeyed minerality, and white flowers, it hits the palate with more medium-bodied richness, a round, supple, layered texture, beautifully integrated acidity, and one heck of a great finish. This is one incredible appellation Chardonnay that should be snatched up by readers." 07/21