WTN: The age of Rhyson

by **David M. Bueker** » Thu Feb 03, 2022 9:13 pm

2016 Rhys Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard - USA, California, Santa Cruz Mountains (2/3/2022)
My bottle from last fall was clearly flawed, as this was a completely different wine. Served alongside the electric 2017 Rhys Horseshoe Chard, the 2016 Alpine was richer and rounder, with more tropical fruit tones, but also more than sufficient acidic backbone. It delivered more gustatory pleasure than the ‘17 ‘Shoe, but less ability to light up the neighborhood during a blackout. For now I prefer the ‘16 Alpine, but the future may favor the ‘17 Horseshoe.
2017 Rhys Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard - USA, California, Santa Cruz Mountains (2/3/2022)
Still rapier sharp, and more than a little reminiscent of Chablis, but with a broader palate impact. Seems poised for long development, but I am not sure it will ever be innately pleasurable. It’s more a thrill ride type of wine.