Butch Milbrandt and winemaker Kendall Mix use the crowd-pleasing Rock Island tier under the Ryan Patrick brand to remind folks that Chardonnay can be made in an easy-to-enjoy style. They pull fruit from Milbrandt vines planted in the Ancient Lakes and the Wahluke Slope for a drink reminiscent of cantaloupe, pear, candied apple and Mandarin orange. It’s fruit-forward and refreshing while still offering the opportunity to appreciate Ancient Lakes minerality. The arrival of quince makes for a zesty finish that surrounds the barrel fermentation (25%) on the midpalate. Qualifying awards: North Central Washington Wine Awards (best of class/gold)
Rating: Platinum • 92 points
Production: 483 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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