Review: Dutcher Crossing 2019 Costello Chardonnay and 2018 Proprietor’s Cabernet Sauvignon
Two new wines from our friends in Sonoma’s Dutcher Crossing.
2019 Dutcher Crossing Chardonnay Costello Vineyard – This Alexander Valley chardonnay bursts with notes of coconut and guava, then moves into Meyer lemon and baking spice notes. A bit doughy and unctuous, as you’d expect from a Sonoma chardonnay, the oak influence drops ample vanilla notes into the mix, eventually finishing on a gentle milk chocolate character. It’s a fine little journey that’s classic California chardonnay from start to finish. A- / $40
2018 Dutcher Crossing Cabernet Sauvignon Proprietor’s Reserve – A silky blend of 80% cabernet and 20% syrah from the Dry Creek Valley. Lush notes of semi-sweet fruit evoke elements of strawberry, raspberry, and currants, all in a cohesive swirl. It’s decidedly elegant, showcasing soft notes of milk chocolate and vanilla. A modest but agreeable tannin component gives the wine a little gravity, but it never hits as overbearing or brutish. Rather, a gently creamy body helps temper some of the wine’s lighter notes of graphite and licorice, while easing the tartness of the blackberry-infused finish. A totally solid buy at this price. A- / $36
2019 Dutcher Crossing Chardonnay Costello Vineyard
$40
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