Paul Hobbs Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2021 Wine (75cl)

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Raised on a farm on the east coast of the United States, Paul Hobbs grew up in a teetotal household—yet his first sip of wine was Château d’Yquem. Initially on track to become a doctor, he turned to winemaking with a scientific precision that has shaped his career. Forbes dubbed him the “Steve Jobs of Wine” , reflecting his reputation as a perfectionist innovator. Notably, Paul was ahead of his time in championing low-intervention methods: since the late 1980s he has worked with wild yeast fermentations and organic vineyard practices, decades before they were fashionable. With multiple 100-point wines to his name, his style is consistently defined by elegance, finesse, and a lightness of touch across all his ranges.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested at night while still cool, whole clusters are pressed immediately on arrival at the winery. Fermentation is carried out in barrel with indigenous yeasts, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation. The wine then matures sur lie in French oak barrels for 12–15 months, with 36% new oak, adding complexity and depth. Tasting Note A pearlescent pale straw colour in the glass. Aromas unfold with layers of citrus peel and crisp Asian pear, leading into juicy apple and tropical fruit. Gardenia notes weave through to the palate, where hints of brioche and cream are balanced by a vein of savoury minerality. The finish is clean, crisp, and beautifully integrated. Viticulture Fruit is sourced from carefully selected vineyards in prime Napa Valley appellations. Yields are tightly managed to achieve concentration and balance, and harvesting is done entirely by hand to ensure pristine fruit quality. Paul Hobbs’ organic vineyard management and hands-off approach express both terroir and purity. Food Matching An excellent partner for Gruyère cheese or pan-seared scallops with soft herbs. Technical Details Variety : 100% Chardonnay Oak Ageing : 12–15 months in French oak (36% new) % Wine Oaked : 100%