2017 Hess ‘Lion Head Collection’ Panthera Chardonnay ($45)

Here’s a returning star to Behind the Cork™.

This 100% Panthera Chardonnay, from the Russian River Valley, is part of the Hess ‘Lion Head Collection’ of wines.

According to the notes, “The word Panthera is believed to be of East Asian origin, meaning ‘the yellowish animal’ or golden-yellow.” This coloring is indeed striking in this vintage of Panthera.

Hess Family wines was founded by Donald Hess in 1978. Today, Tim Persson (Donald’s son in law) and his wife Sabrina are owners of Hess Family Wine Estates and are the fifth generation of the Hess family to lead the company.

Panthera is part of a collection of wines that are not Hess branded. But it certainly represents the tradition and heritage of Hess wines.

This Panthera Chardonnay has a great balance of pear with hints of pineapple along with some acidity and is rounded out with light oak. The oak comes from 15 months of aging in 35% new French oak.

If you are looking for an elegant Russian River Chardonnay to enjoy with your holiday meals, look no further. This one’s really nice. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Donna White, Donna White Communications