2022 Freeman Chardonnay Hawk Hill

The 2022 Chardonnay Hawk Hill Vineyard is airy, gracious and understated. Hints of apricot, mint, white pepper and chamomile lend notable complexity. The 2022 shows the mid-palate pliancy of a warm vintage, yet it remains light on its feet. 91 points

Hawk Hill Vineyard is found in the confluence of the Russian River, Sonoma Coast and Green Valley AVAs, planted on the region`s Goldridge soils. The blocks that Freeman uses are clone five older plantings from 1992. According to winemaker Akiko Freeman, Hawk Hill is reliably the last pick they make each vintage, and that was the story in 2022—aromatics of apricots and honey, spiced pear and lemon curd. The wine is made in 100% neutral barrels for 10 months. The elevage adds a nice creamy character to the palate, brightened by the acidity Hawk Hill`s cool site reliably gives—flavours of tart Meyer lemon pulp, spiced pear and a richness of honey-drizzled apricot. 94 points