Fifteen percent new oak adds creaminess without overwhelming the fruit. Apples and tangelo (honeybell) and a touch of white pepper are matched with good acids. The finish falls off quickly, but that is not unexpected at this price point. This-read more-
This is a very pleasant bottle of wine. Some residual sugar (13g/L) supports the fruit without seeming too sweet. It is aromatic, with white flowers, pineapple, and a touch of gooseberry. On the palate, pineapple, apricot, a pinch of nutmeg-read more-
This wine has a floral nose and a fruity palate. Pear and tropical fruits lead the pleasant palate, but it falls down with an astringent finish. Drink it with stuffed flounder. WHO: Clos LaChance WHAT: Viognier WHERE: Santa Clara County,-read more-
Grenache Blanc is most commonly found in Rhône blends. Here it appears as a single varietal wine. Alcohol seems a touch high for this varietal, at 13.5%, but it is not obtrusive. It has the varietally classic dill flavor over-read more-
Some restraint is shown with the application of oak, allowing minerals, honeydew, and very tart apple to show through. The finish is sour apple and salt. This is far from a typical California Chardonnay, and would balance well with sweet-read more-
A heavily oaked California Chardonnay that would not stand out in the crowd. Some apples hide under the wood, but the finish has a slightly acetone flavor. Pair with roast chicken. WHO: Clos LaChance WHAT: Chardonnay WHERE: Santa Cruz Mountains,-read more-
Very soft wine with sweet tannins and ripe red fruits. Florals follow the dark cherry and plum, rose and lavender. Fruits and tannins slightly overbalance the acid - not enough to be flabby, just rich. However, it is a hint-read more-
The dark golden color is clear evidence of the age of this wine. Minerality and acidity run in streaks through golden honey, white honeysuckle, and marzipan flavors. A tangy-sweet key lime peel citrus carries the acid and keeps it from-read more-