CHARDONNAY
……………………………………………………………………………

Chardonnay grapes are a highly complex, aromatic grape, complete and balanced enough in flavor to stand beautifully on their own. Winemakers find this grape a challenge in that it allows them to demonstrate their artistry through controlling the fermentation and aging process to bring forth an intriguing variety of delicate aromas and flavors in Chardonnay wines.

These wines are traditionally described as having flavors of green apple, lemon or citrus, all pointing to fruity flavor and acidity. Wines made from extremely ripe grapes bear the distinctly softer Chardonnay flavors of figs, pineapples, ripe apples, melons and honey.  Chardonnay takes oak well, and many higher priced Chardonnays are typically fermented and/or aged in oak barrels. When Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels, it may pick up vanilla overtones in its aromas and flavor.

30 Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2005 and 2006 A classic Napa Chardonnay. The 2005 vintage shows a fragrant varietal nose of white fruits and subtle vanilla with toasty nuances highlighting pear, pineapple and melon fruit flavors set in a supple, discreet oak structure. The 2006 vintage is reminiscent of green apples and the faint scent of apricots. This wine has a very slight buttery finish and a subtle hint of French oak vanillin in the background. $78.00 41 Merryvale Starmont Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2005 Aromas of exotic fruit, ripe peach, green apple with a hint of vanilla and spice with a round impression on the palate and a clean silky finish. $43.00 31 Charles Krug Chardonnay, Carneros District, 2005 Crisp and light with fruit aromas of apple, pear and peach with hints of vanillla and oak spice. A silky palate with good fruit concentration and balance. This wine is a great food companion. $34.00 32 David Ramey Chardonnay, Carneros District, 2005 Complex aromas of tangerine, pear and gingerbread display impressive focus.  Energetic citrus and citrus zest flavors and a deeper note of poached pear on the finish. $75.00 33 Far Niente Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2004 and 2005 A classically structured wine. Typically intense and lean in its youth. The 2004 features ripe pear and melon flavors, a racy core of acidity and a long finish. The 2005 vintage has aromas of fruit and spicy oak, coupled with rich flavors of melon, fig and spice. $110.00 34 Frei Brother Redwood Creek Chardonnay, California, 2006 Medium-bodied with ripe peach and pineapple flavors accented by a hint of toasted oak. $23.00 36 Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay, California, 2006 Tropical flavors such as mango and pineapple dance with aromas of peach, apple and pear. Richly layered and balanced throughout. Lightly buttered toast headlines the indulgent, lingering finish. Scored 89 by Robert Parker and considered a “remarkable value”. $31.00 37 La Crema Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, 2006 The 2006 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay bursts with enticing aromas of citrus, floral notes, butterscotch, lemon peel and a slight spicy quality. In the mouth, flavors of citrus, pear and honeysuckle combine with subtle toast and caramel, adding richness and texture to the long, lingering finish. $36.00 38 Martin Ray Mariage Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, 2002 Rich aromas highlighted by fresh white peaches and vanilla.  The wine’s superior structure and balance has a backbone  of crisp apple, peach and creamy vanilla  that continues flawlessly to a ripe full finish. $36.00 39 Robert Mondavi Private Selection Chardonnay, Central Coast, 2005 Deep yellow color; aromas of anise, citrus, cooked apple and tropical fruit. Dry, full-bodied, with a nice balance of tropical fruit and oak; crisp acidity on the long spicy finish. $24.00 40 Rodney Strong Chardonnay, Sonoma County, 2006 A fresh fruit-forward character with a touch of brown spice and vanilla. This chardonnay has bright lemon and apple aromas mingling with hints of toasty barrel complexity. $32.00 42 Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay, Sonoma County, 2005 Flavors of lemon, apple, pear, pineapple and cantaloupe-the full array of Sonoma's cornucopia of fruit, joins a nutty, spicy, lightly oak profile that stakes out a unique territory sure to please those who love Chardonnay. $44.00 43 Sterling Vineyards Napa County Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2006 Light straw in color, this Chardonnay offers a rich, creamy entry with flavors of ripe pear and apple, vanilla and spice followed by a long, fruity/toasty finish. $49.00