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Today's Wine Review

2024 Merriam Vineyards Chardonnay "Evanthea's Estate"

Merriam 2024 Evanthea's Estate Chardonnay

Winery: Merriam Vineyards

Vintage: 2024

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Evanthea's Estate"

Wine Category: Chardonnay

Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Russian River Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $48

Cases produced: 100

KWG Score: 94 (based on 1 review)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (94)

Review date: July 12, 2026

Wine Review: This clear and medium gold colored Chardonnay from Merriam is terrific! It opens with a pineapple and oak bouquet with hints of pear and Italian anise cookie. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with integrated medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is nicely balanced, very smooth, delicate, and elegant. The flavor profile is a very tasty grilled pineapple and mild Nilla wafer cookie blend with notes of oak and Bosc pear. I also detected hints of quince, lemon tea, and marzipan. The finish is dry, and its flavors and acidity drift away nicely. I would pair this refined and very food friendly Chard with your favorite crab cake recipe. This is also very much approved by Theresa, and it did not last long! Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: This Chardonnay is elegant and refined, with layered aromas of honeycomb, wax, and brioche, lifted by fresh pear and bright lemon curd. Subtle notes of toast and gentle oak from time in French barrels add depth without overpowering the vibrant fruit. The palate is silky and harmonious, balancing richness with fresh acidity, finishing long, polished, and effortlessly graceful.

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