Joseph Phelps 2015 Ovation

Value: $125

The inaugural vintage of Ovation Sparkling Wine is scented with stone fruit, white flower, exotic guava notes and a hint of toasted brioche. Delicate, refined acid structure and with focused layers of Meyer lemon, ripe pear and just picked apricots highlight an expansive mouth feel and lingering finish. Following disgorging, a dosage of aged reserve wine was added for balance. Exceptional upon release, with additional flavor benefits when cellared.

94 Points - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
"The 2015 Ovation Sparkling is the inaugural vintage of sparkling made in the ancestral method. It is made from Chardonnay (and 20% Pinot Noir) from the Freestone Vineyards. Ovation was originally made as a still Chardonnay, but after founder Joseph Phelps's passing in 2015, this Ovation sparkling was created to honor him. It's a beautiful wine with intense aromas of ripe orchard fruits and layers of pastry, saline, almonds and brioche from its three years' tirage. The palate is expansive with a creamy mousse, and its bright acidity is balanced by eight grams of dosage. It finishes with loads of flavor and juiciness. This was disgorged in January of 2020." June 2021

94 Points - James Suckling
"Lovely new sparkling wine with density and richness, as well as a very fine bead of bubbles. It's full and layered. Tangy and rich with slightly exotic character in the palate. Transparent and bright." May, 2021