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Kesner Sandrift Chardonnay 2009
$64.99
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Jason Kesner is the guy behind the guy on some of the great California Chardonnay of the last decade. As manager of the Hudson Vineyard from 2000 to 2008, he grew the grapes which went into the top level Chards from Cakebread, Darioush, Duckhorn, Kongsgaard, Miner, Plumpjack, Patz & Hall and Ramey (just to name a few). In 2008, he joined Kistler as the assistant winemaker.
Since 2002, he has produced less than 10 total barrels of his own label. In only the second vintage, it was named as The Highly Recommended Chardonnay at The French Laundry; an honor it has kept ever since.
The Kesner wines are almost entirely earmarked for top restaurants or sold through the winery mailing list. We were lucky enough to get our hands on a few cases and are excited to pass them on to you.
The Kesner Sandrift 2009 is, in a single word, remarkable. From two vineyard sites in the Sonoma Coast, it sees 20% new French Oak and is aged for 16 months on the lees. The cool climate lends it a sleek precision and potent acidity but Mr. Kesner's particular style tends towards a rich roundness and tropical fruit expression. Notes of butterscotch, papaya, dried pineapple, cinnamon apple and pear essence seduce the nose and palate. The finish is clean yet complex, lasting for over half a minute. It is pure pleasure and nearly impossible to put down.
Any fan of California Chardonnay owes it to themselves to try these wines as Mr. Kesner is destined to take over for Mr. Kistler thus will not be unknown for much longer.
As always, Le Du's offers 15% off any purchases of 12 bottles or more.
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