Castello di Amorosa Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $28 (S) – Rating 90For those who enjoy traditional California Chardonnay with oaky creaminess in the right proportions, this Chardonnay delivers. A nose of red apples and baking spice with hints of pie crust. Balanced acidity with a soft mouth-feel give way to flavors of red apple, pear and spice with subtle notes of toasty vanilla and caramel. Buy This Wine
Alpha Omega Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $65 (S) – Rating 92A sophisticated and balanced style of Chardonnay with all the flavors and aromas enjoyed by those who love oaked Chardonnay without getting overblown. The nose is a bouquet of red apple, pear, Meyer lemon and tropicals highlighted with notes of oaky vanilla. A lush and creamy mouth-feel with balanced acidity offering flavors of red apple, caramel, citrus, minerality, toasty brioche and vanilla. Subtle hints of toffee on the finish. Buy This Wine
Jordan Chardonnay 2012, Russian River Valley, CA, $30 (S) – Rating 92Very Burgundian in style, rather than the bigger Chardonnays more often associated with California. A very elegant nose offering aromas of citrus, cream and ripe pear. The mouth-feel is creamy with present yet balanced acidity. Well integrated flavors of red apple, pineapple, pear, citrus and minerality are highlighted with hints of vanilla and caramel. An extremely long finish with intriguing notes of Meyer lemon. Buy This Wine
Limited production of only 180 cases. Fermented sur lie in equal parts concrete, stainless steel and neutral oak barrels. In the glass, a rich golden hue with aromas of red apple, citrus and baking spice. A balanced mouth-feel offering enough crisp acidity to food pair or enjoy solo. Flavors of red apple, pear and tropicals with just a hint of lime, spice and minerality. Pleasant notes of grilled pineapple and citrus on the long finish. Buy This Wine
Scents of red apples, pears, tropical fruit and baking spice. A round mouth-feel with juicy acidity from the judicious use of new and neutral oak barrels. Creamy flavors of pear and red apple with a hints of pineapple and vanilla. A nice touch of spice on the finish. Buy This Wine
