2023 Hillier Blanc Block 130 Reserve Chardonnay

In our opinion, our best wine yet.

Notes by Rick VanSickle:

The Last House Hillier Blanc Block 130 Reserve 2023 (95 points) — The reserve version of this wine is made the same way as the Block 130 Chardonnay with the exception that one barrel stood out from the get-go. “Ironically, I call this barrel my lucky barrel,” says Gagne. “It was the first barrel I acquired (from Geoff Heinricks). It was used to barrel ferment the first vintage of Hillier Blanc Christian Block, the 2019. Pure County but reminiscent of Macon Viré Chards made with a small percentage of botrytis affected grapes.” Just 23 cases made. So different from the estate Hillier Blanc Block 130, much more elegant and poised with perfumed pear, floral notes, river rock and saline, Meyer lemon, quince and perfectly integrated spice notes. The elegance shines through on the palate with a richer, textured profile and riper pear and yellow apple fruits balanced by juicy lemon, stony minerality and spice with such lovely finesse and length on the finish. A beauty that will be fun to watch age for five or more years. Bravo!