Chimney Rock Elevage 2022

93 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Chimney Rock's 2022 Elevage Estate Grown is a blend of 58% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot that spent 18 months in 90% new French oak. Scents of hickory smoke and clove lend an almost bacony cast to the ripe black cherry fruit on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is lush and creamy, slightly loosening and becoming less smooth on the softly dusty-velvety finish.

93 Points Wine Spectator Shows great structure and a supple texture, with refined red currant and cherry flavors laced with rose petal, herbes de Provence and spice notes that finish with fine-grained tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2032. 1,452 cases made.

91 Points Jeb Dunnuck Aside from the Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2022 Elevage is the only blend in the lineup and checks in as 58% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Petit Verdot that spent 18 months in 90% new French oak. It has a juicy, upfront style in its red and black cherry fruit as well as chocolate, spicy oak, and savory herb-driven aromas and flavors. These carry to a medium-bodied blend that has a charming, forward mouthfeel, a nicely balanced style, a kiss of firmer tannins, and outstanding length. It's a spicy, complex effort that will benefit from just a handful of years in the cellar and then be best drunk by 2032.

91 Points James Suckling The nose gives aromas of blackberries, mulberries and cedar. The palate is full-bodied with firm tannins and acidity, showing notes of mocha, graphite and spices.

91 Points Vinous The 2022 Elevage is terrific in this vintage. I imagine it benefits from its lower production overall and a blend that includes Merlot and Petit Verdot, both of which add terrific mid-palate presence and weight.