Review: Landmark Vineyards 2020 Damaris Chardonnay and 2019 Hop Kiln Pinot Noir
Landmark is a perennial favorite around here, and today we’re back with two fresh 2023 releases, a chardonnay and a pinot noir.
2020 Landmark Vineyards Damaris Reserve Chardonnay Sonoma Coast – A classic expression of Landmark at its best. Bright notes of lemon and honey create a soothing attack that evokes lemon tea, with a pinch of ginger in the mix. Creamy vanilla and almond notes build from there, setting an appropriately chewy stage, eventually reaching a conclusion that offers a bit of cleansing lime leaf and lemon peel. One of my favorite Landmark chardonnays to date.
2019 Landmark Vineyards Hop Kiln Estate Pinot Noir Russian River Valley – A somewhat dense expression of pinot noir, with a thick black cherry character evident, both on the nose and the palate. There’s a hint of pruny sweetness late in the game, but elements of cloves, fresh ground black pepper, and a clear cola and tea leaf keep things in balance. The wine finishes up with a touch of fresh bay leaf, offering a verdant character to the proceedings.
