Chardonnay

Feb 182012
 
2010 Passaggio Chardonnay, New Generation, Unoaked, CA, $19 (S) – Rating 90

Clean, crisp without a hint of oak. Winemaker Cindy Cosco’s Passaggio Chardonnay is pure chard with lean flavors of Meyer lemon, pineapple, minerality and citrus. The zippy acid component makes it great foodie wine. Pair with white sauces and seafood. We paired it with herb roasted chicken… yummy!

Feb 172012
 
2009 Blanchard Family Wines Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Ca, $25 (S) – Rating 90

Blanchard Family Wines Chardonnay from Russian River fruit opens with flavors of ripe apple, pear, vanilla and creme. Balanced fruit and acidity with those subtle buttery notes we enjoy. A rich texture and round mouth-feel with a soft finish of butterscotch and caramel. Check out this small artisan Sonoma producer.

Jan 242012
 
2010 Hagafen Chardonnay, Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, CA, $24 (S) – Rating 90

A lovely rich Chardonnay with a nose of lemon, citrus, baked pineapple and melted butter. The soft round mouth-feel offers up flavors of ripe pineapple, pear, citrus creme, red apple and oaky vanilla. A full-bodied CA Chardonnay style without getting flabby.

Jan 242012
 
2009 J Vineyards Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA, $28 (S) – Rating 91

An expressive nose of pineapple cream pie is followed by a rich and round mouth-feel full of  butterscotch, peach, vanilla crème brûlée, Meyer lemon and ripe pineapple with hints of lighter spice. A bit of zippy acidity add to the experience to create a Chardonnay that stand beautifully on its own yet will pair well with lighter fare.

Jan 242012
 
2010 Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards Chardonnay, Los Angeles County, CA, $24 (S) – Rating 88

Upon opening the bottle the aromas start with a nostalgic creamy cinnamon roll but as it opens, notes of tropical and pineapple come through. A medium-bodied Chardonnay, this offering from Malibu Rocky Oaks offers up flavors of red apple, tropicals, ripe pineapple, oaky vanilla, creme brulee and soft spice. A touch of acidity adds depth.