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-
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-
Tasting this unwooded Chardonnay ignited an instant craving for oysters, scallops, and any other sea creature that comes from a shell. The searing acidity, crisp citrus fruit, green apple and peach are balanced with a round full mouth feel from-read more-
Clear, bright, medium straw yellow. Fine bubbles cascade up the glass. The nose is clean with medium intensity aromas of lemon, chalk, biscuit, cooked yellow apple, and yellow cherries. This is a dry wine with a full mousse, and large-read more-
Clear, bright, medium straw yellow. Fine bubbles cascade up the glass. The nose is clean with medium intensity aromas of lemon, chalk, biscuit, cooked yellow apple, and yellow cherries. This is a dry wine with a full mousse, and large-read more-
As one who tends to hate the combination of oak and young Chardonnay, I was surprised at the deft touch at which the oak was used here. It spent 10 months in barrel, with 50% in new French oak, and-read more-
Somewhat floral aroma with toasted yeast, pears, and honey. Medium toasty body, opening and showing more fruit in the glass. Crisp, citric finish. A California sparkler that has taken on the depth and rounded flavors characteristic of vintage champagne, so-read more-