2013 Dirty and Rowdy Chardonnay Alder Springs Vineyard - USA, California, North Coast, Mendocino County (11/27/2015)
Similar to a bottle I had of this several weeks ago, there was lots a bright acidity supporting lively citrus fruit and a notable spiciness. There was also a bass note to the wine that I had not noted the last time I tried this that put the wine more squarely in California, but with a clear nod towards the old world. Delicious.
2013 Matthiasson Chardonnay Michael Mara Vineyard - USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast (11/27/2015)
Served alongside the Dirty & Rowdy Chardonnay, this initially seemed positively weighty! Once I was able to isolate the wine it showed slightly richer but still quite nervy. More in the apple/pear fruit vein, this also showed more breadth on the palate, but was still very clear, with supporting elements of light oak and minerality. This was also an excellent food wine (as was the D&R), with ample acidity to cut through the buttery richness of our lobster main course.
NV Pierre Péters Champagne Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Réserve Oubliée - France, Champagne, Le Mesnil Sur Oger, Champagne (11/27/2015)
June 2013 disgorgement.
This showed very wine-y, standing with the 2 still Chardonnays served alongside, and showcasing depth and richness that belied its Blanc de Blancs origin. Where I was expecting something more elegant and weightless, it almost dominated the palate, carrying its richness through the finish. This was not a typical Peters wine, though both my wife and I really liked what it had to give.
2002 R. López de Heredia Rioja Reserva Viña Tondonia - Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja (11/27/2015)
A late addition to the party, as my dad and I were discussing LdH. This was very similar to prior bottles I have had with red cherry fruit and supporting oak. Very young but very approachable.