Cattleya - The Temptress Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2022
Price: $74.99
| Producer | Cattleya |
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| Country | California |
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| Region | Napa Valley |
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| Subregion | Russian River Valley |
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| Varietal | CHARDONNAY |
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| Vintage | 2022 |
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| Sku | 35416 |
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Cattleya Description
The 2022 Cattleya Chardonnay The Temptress is an alluring wine crafted by the talented winemaker Bibiana González Rave at Cattleya Winery. This Chardonnay from the esteemed Martinelli Road Vineyard in the Russian River Valley pours a shade of straw with a youthful green hue, immediately drawing in the eye. Its aromas are captivating, with pronounced notes of white peach, ripe pear, and lemon zest, blending seamlessly with hints of candied ginger, melon, and honeyed citrus. Adding depth, the wine reveals subtle layers of crushed rock, flint, and freshly baked brioche, which together build a mineral and seamless aromatic experience.
On the palate, The Temptress displays a full-bodied, lush texture with a clean finish, wrapping flavors of red apple, crisp pear, and stone fruit in a subtle note of lightly toasted French oak. The flavors stay beautifully generous yet keep a refined frame throughout, thanks to its careful aging process. Accents of thyme, tarragon, and mint add complexity to this round, balanced wine, with a texture that remains dense yet measured. Finishing long and smooth, The Temptress leaves a lasting impression with a slightly oily mouthfeel that reflects the opulence and quality of its origins.
Aged for 14 months in 38% new French oak, this Chardonnay embodies a harmonious balance of acidity and richness. The wine’s vibrant acidity preserves its freshness, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a Chardonnay that remains true to its roots and expresses the Russian River Valley’s ideal growing conditions. Each sip of this wine invites you into the unique character of its vineyard, with every pour exhibiting layers of flavor and finesse that linger on the palate.
With only 185 cases produced and an ABV of 14.5%, this wine is a rare treat, offering not only a refined taste but a genuine reflection of the Martinelli Road Vineyard’s terroir. The Temptress is a testament to Bibiana’s commitment to quality and her artistry in winemaking, making it a Chardonnay you won’t want to miss.
The Temptress 2022 has garnered remarkable praise, including 96 points from both Vinous and Jeb Dunnuck. Vinous highlights its oily, voluptuous texture and aromas of hazelnut, marzipan, and clementine, finishing with a trace of fresh herbs. Jeb Dunnuck notes the wine’s ripe peach, wildflower, and sweet spice, remarking on its lush, clean, and full-bodied feel that promises to age beautifully over the next 8-10 years.
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