The 2010 Chardonnay Estate is captivating in its beauty. All the elements are very nicely balanced in this soft, textured Chardonnay. Tropical fruit, lemon and pastry are some of the many notes that take shape in the glass. The 2010 is rich and expressive, but not at all heavy. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Tom and Eva Dehlinger's wines stand out for many reasons, including their very fair prices. This year I thought the Syrahs were particularly of note. Yields have been down in the last few years because of a conversion back to cane pruning, but with 2011 yields are up to a bit higher than normal. The Dehlinger wines are beautiful, full of character and richly deserving of a broader audience.Tel. (707) 823-2378

The 2008 Chardonnay Estate offers even more popcorn, white currant, citrus blossom and steely, mineral-like notes along with a richer, full-bodied mouthfeel, excellent acidity and an elegant yet authoritative style. Consume it over the next 2-4 years. The ever reliable Tom Dehlinger continues to turn out some of the most fairly priced wine in all of California. I’m glad to see he has added a tiny quantity of rose to his portfolio. As he said, it is his first “non estate” wine in 25 years. Dehlinger’s Pinot Noirs have an enviable track record of aging well for at least a decade even in challenging vintages. One does not generally think of the Russian River area as prime Cabernet Sauvignon territory, but in certain vintages, Dehlinger’s Cabernets can be amazing. Moreover, they sell for about 50% less than comparable Cabernets from Napa Valley.Tel. (707) 823-2378; Fax (707) 823-0918

From an old Wente clone, the 2007 Chardonnay Estate (which was aged in one-third new oak) is one of Dehlinger’s bigger cuvees, with just under 1,800 cases being produced. Although closed at present, it reveals plenty of bright citrus and nectarine notes intermixed with hints of white currants and pears. Elegant and medium-bodied with a distinctive minerality, but playing it close to the vest, this wine should open up and prove to be outstanding with another 8-12 months of bottle age. Tom Dehlinger is “consistently consistent,” and his wines are always a delight to taste. When you combine that with fair pricing and remarkable humility, this estate merits (and receives) strong support from wine consumers. Dehlinger’s 2007 Pinot Noirs may be the finest he has produced since the mid-nineties (his 1994s are still holding on to life). In his quiet manner, Tom Dehlinger continues to turn out very fine Syrahs, and deserves credit for being one of the pioneers with Rhone Ranger varietals.Tel. (707) 823-2378; Fax (707) 823-0918