Beverage of the Week (BOW)

Tongue Dancer Wines Pratt Vyd Irwin Lane Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2019

Product Story

This wine represents Tongue Dancer Wines fifth Chardonnay and the third from Pratt Vineyard Irwin Lane in the Russian River Valley AVA. Every vintage of this wine offers a unique expression while having a strong familial bond. This (2019) vintage is not as “leesy” as last year as it offers more citrus notes and a lovely vibrancy. Great winemaking consists of farming, artistry of the winemaker, and mother nature — not necessarily in that order. The Chardonnay from this vineyard is all certified organic and the fruit was hand-picked. This Chardonnay is made entirely with whole cluster pressed grapes straight to barrel and then 100% barrel fermented and rested on its lees for 10 months in French oak barrels (25% new). It is drinking great now — the but this wine has a promising future as well and five years in the cellar should reveal additional nuances.

Brand Story

Tongue Dancer Wines is the latest project from James and Kerry MacPhail. If you are a California Pinot Noir lover you likely know James' previous work with MacPhail Family Wines. In over two decades of work MacPhail built a well-deserved reputation as a Pinot Noir guru. Tongue Dancer Wines are Pinot Noir specialists including this delicious and unique Pinot Noir Rosé (one of two styles now available) and two delicious Chardonnays, as well as a new (2019) world-class sparkling wine. In short order Tongue Dancer Wines has become one of our most anticipated arrivals. We can't wait to see what they do next. Visit their website and join their mailing list to get direct access to their wines.

Tasting Note

Brilliant, medium gold/green color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of lychee and freshly baked bread with supporting notes of white peach, kumquat, and wild honey. The palate echoes the nose delivering a ripe orchard fruits-driven core with flavors of pineapple, lemon curd, and wet stones. The finish lingers with crisp citrus accents and subtle pear notes. Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a vibrant yet expansive texture.

How to Serve

Serve chilled but not too cold or you will suppress the the subtle nuances abundant in this wine. Pair it with roasted chicken and/or vegetables.

Price: $ 42

BevX Review: http://bevx.com/wine-detail/?id=4087