From the very outset, this lavishly oaked and abundantly fruity working conveys an impressive sense of depth and scale, and it shows a certain note of stony "terroir" spice that makes it a far more interesting wine than its ripe and fruity cousins that simply stop at apples and oak. It takes a slight bow to ripeness at the back, but it has more than enough stuffing to buffer its edge of latter-palate heat, and it is sure to make a more than satisfying mate to lobster, salmon, or ahi tuna. October 2005

Delivers pure, ripe Chardonnay fruit, which shows off a medley of citrus, green apple and ripe pear flavors that are well-focused, holding their fruit intensity through the long, complex finish. Drink now through 2009. 800 cases made. - J.L. 6-15-05