Mount Eden Estate Chardonnay 2020

Mount Eden Estate Chardonnay 2020

Mount Eden Vineyards is a small historic wine estate perched at 2000 feet overlooking Silicon Valley in the Santa Cruz Mountain Appellation, about 50 miles south of San Francisco. Founded in 1945, it is recognized as one of the original “boutique” California winery properties, focusing on small lots of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Critical Acclaim

95 Wine Enthusiast

The wines of Mount Eden frequently show unique profiles. This Chardonnay exemplifies that, with aromas of trampled lemons on orchard floor, wild mint and verbena on the earthy nose. The palate combines a tremendously firm grip with a buttery warmth, offering a shiso-like minty sensation across flavors of melon and toasted nut. 

92 Wine Spectator

Shows nutmeg, cardamom and a touch of clove, which add aromatic interest to the core of Fuji apple, lemon zest, pear pastry and crème anglaise flavors. Features fresh, vibrant acidity that brightens up the flavors on a sleek, juicy frame. Drink now.

90 Vinous

The 2020 Chardonnay is a very beautiful wine in a hugely challenging year. The ripe flavor profile is a reminder of the intense heat during the growing season. Even so, the 2020 remains medium in body, with slightly phenolic contours. Lemon confit, tangerine oil, hazelnut, spice and tropical accents open with coaxing. The balance here is not perfect, but that was not possible. Instead, I am super-impressed with the way this wine overachieves the potential of the year. I would prefer to drink this over the next few years, before the fruit fades, as there is some underlying aggressiveness that will become stronger over time.