From a vineyard that seems to do well no matter who is making the wine, the 2004 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is tropical fruit-dominated with classic California notes of creme brulee, roasted pineapples, hazelnuts, brioche, and plenty of spice. It’s a stunningly full-bodied, exotic, in-your-face offering with terrific underlying acidity. This savory, fresh, vibrant, well-delineated white should last for 7-8 years. This Chardonnay tends to be aged in 100% new oak (which is totally concealed) and is bottled without fining or filtration. Consequently, if it has just been shipped or moved, it can reveal a slight haze.