Chardonnay

May 152011
 
2009 Cinnabar Chardonnay, Monterey, CA, $20(S) – Rating 3.9

A very plesant French-style Chardonnay that pairs with food quite well. 20% oak barrell aging and 60% malolactic fermenation adds richness without too much muscle. Nice fruit with flavcors of lemon curd, apples mixed with a touch of citrus and minerality

Apr 172011
 
2009 Red Car Wine CO – BoxCar Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, CA (S) $23 – Rating 4.0

BoxCar Chardonnay by Red Car Wine Company is a very well-made example of a mid-weight CA Chardonnay. The use of only 10% new oak moderates the oak flavors and allows the creaminess to rise to the top. Nice tropical and apple flavors with a touch of straw and minerality. The well integrated flavors are big enough to stand on its own but still pair well with food. Think grilled chicken rubbed with lemon pepper.

Apr 092011
 
2008 Newton Red Label Chardonnay, Sonoma & Napa County, CA, $20 – Rating 89

A very enjoyable “Go To” Chardonnay. Crisp and not overblown. Great patio sipper but still enough acidity and depth to pair well with seafood or a lightly seasoned pork/chicken.

Folie à Deux Chardonnay

 Comments Off on Folie à Deux Chardonnay
Mar 282011
 
2009 Folie à Deux Chardonnay, Napa Valley, CA $18 (S) Rating 92

Paired with a piece of rare grilled tuna and a grilled salad (asiago cheese/peppercorn dressing, bacon & diced tomatoes), the Folie à Deux Chardonnay really hit the spot and held it’s own. Well developed flavors of red apple, peach, butter, oak and vanilla. This is no overblown CA Chardonnay but has a great blend of those oak, vanilla and buttery flavors we love. At $20 or less, it is a great buy.

Robert Mondavi Winery Chardonnay

 Comments Off on Robert Mondavi Winery Chardonnay
Mar 282011
 
2008 Robert Mondavi Winery Chardonnay, Napa Valley, CA, $20 (S) – Rating 87

A very pleasant crisp Chardonnay. Delicate notes of white peach, pear, apple and melon. Clean finish with a touch of minerality.