Mark Aubert is one of the contenders for California's finest practitioner of Burgundian-styled, yet classic, California Chardonnays. His offerings are all made like grand cru Burgundies with full malolactic, the use of French oak and lees stirring, but the purity of fruit, the textural dimensions, and the stunning singularity of these Chardonnays can only be matched by a handful of other Chardonnay producers in the world. The Lauren Estate Chardonnay is a reminder that Sonoma Coast can inspire wines reminiscent of White Burgundy. Fabulously concentrated and layered with density and extract, the aromatics and mouth feel are profound. The aromas offer a dynamic array of lemon-lime, white peach cream and spiced apples. Site specific tones such as lemon grass, pecans, and flint give the wine an organic sense of place. The palate shows little restraint despite its delicate and elegant textures. The 2013 Lauren is naturally clear with green tints on the edge. The unique structure of this Chardonnay is focused with powerful length on the palate, and will allow this wine to age for 12+ years. The wine has a slight hazy clarity showing the commitment to minimal intervention winemaking.
