The second vintage of this wine, the 2018 Chardonnay Powder House comes from eight acres of what are now estate-owned vines planted in 2013, to Hyde Old Wente and Mt. Eden clones on Goldridge soils. The vineyard is located in downtown Forestville, right across from the high school. The nose bursts from the glass with notes of lemon meringue pie, lime curd, tangerine peel and candied ginger plus touches of lightly browned toast, cashews and a waft of cedar. The full-bodied palate starts out gentle and floral, expanding into a citrus explosion on the finish, featuring a wicked backbone of freshness and loads of compelling savory sparks that will keep you coming back for more.

The first vintage of this cuvée I've been able to taste (it was first made in 2017), the 2018 Chardonnay Powder House comes from a site on the Sonoma Coast and is from a mix of old Wente and Mt. Eden clones. Its lighter gold hue is followed by a beautiful bouquet of white flowers, honeyed white peach, nectarines, and mint. It's a classic Aubert Chardonnay, with clean, pure, complex aromatics, full-bodied richness, bright acidity, and a stunning sense of opulence pared with freshness. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years.

Smoky richness accents the concentrated apple and peach pastry flavors, supported by steely acidity. Luscious spiciness emerges midpalate, with a long finish that lingers with intense minerality and sea salt details. Best from 2022 through 2027. 946 cases made.

The 2018 Chardonnay Powder House is a bit nervous today. Bright mineral notes give the 2018 a good bit of energy and tension to drive the citrus and floral flavors. I am really looking forward to tasting the 2018 after bottling, as I imagine it will be a bit more relaxed.