Chalk Hill Estate added to its recent honors with two 90+ scores from Wine Enthusiast this past month. The 2016 Chalk Hill Estate Sauvignon Blanc was awarded 93 points from the publication, while the 2015 Chalk Hill Estate Chardonnay earned 90 points. The producer joined Foley Johnson and Roth Estates as several in the Foley Family Wines portfolio to be recognized during the month of February.
Crisp and fresh, the ’16 CH Estate Sauvignon Blanc boasts bright and acidic fruits on the nose including sweet grapefruit, honeydew melon, lime blossom, white tea, and toasted fennel. The palate is succulent with grapefruit zest, nectar, lime, and flint.
The winemaker’s notes for the ’15 CH Estate Chardonnay suggest aromas of lemon, orange blossom and a hint of vanilla bean from the oak influence. It is a balanced wine with complex and full flavors, known for its long, rich and elegant finish.
Also receiving praise from Wine Enthusiast is the 2015 Roth Estate Sonoma County Merlot, which garnered 90 points. “Intense aromas of dark fruits, hints of sweet spice, and silky dark chocolate,” read the tasting notes. “Richly concentrated black plum, violet, chocolate cream and cardamom fill the palate on this dense and dark Merlot.”
The 2015 Roth Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, continues to impress, earning GOLD at the 2018 Hilton Head Wine and Food Festival. The wine was also honored by Wine Spectator in January, earning 91 points. From the winemaker, “A true reflection of our passion for the noble Cabernet grape. Dark in color with complex aromas. Rich and smooth on the palate. Supple tannins beautifully accented by a balanced acidity.”
Also placing at Hilton Head was the 2014 Foley Johnson Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, which earned DOUBLE GOLD. “Dark ruby with concentrated notes of blackberry, black currant, anise and earthy characteristics on the nose,” read the tasting notes. “Excellent body and mouthfeel. A wonderfully balanced tannin-acid structure.” The ’14 FJ Cab had previously earned a 91-point score from Robert Parker.
