My glass was certainly more than half full for this outstanding white. Jasmine and apricot nectar are shiny, flavorful, and aromatic. Grassy notes evolve at mid-point, with thyme, basil, and grapefruit keeping us on our toes.
My glass was certainly more than half full for this outstanding white. Jasmine and apricot nectar are shiny, flavorful, and aromatic. Grassy notes evolve at mid-point, with thyme, basil, and grapefruit keeping us on our toes.
Woodsy notes are followed by coconut-marshmallow and lemon cookie. Splashy and vivacious, this ultra-elegant Chardonnay possesses structure and balance. It maintains a rich character without being over-indulgent: which means great balance.
Plush, velvet-lined tannins are streamlined as they brace up against the wine’s inherent chalky nature. Boysenberry, plum liqueur, violets, and dark roasted coffee beans add depth to an already lacquered and layered red.
Velvet-lioned tannins manage to have the power to hold on to teeth and palate. A majestic red that comes in with a roar, gentled by its poise and presence. The blend of 76% Cabernet, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Petit Verdot exhibits notes of graphite, violets, blackberry, tobacco, and coffee bean. It’s power levels off to a refined, harnessed purr for an ideal finish.
Ethereal notes of lemon meringue, tangerine sorbet, and balanced acidity bring out a wine of graceful subtlety.
An artful mosaic of soil, red raspberries, cinnamon, candied apple, and spiced red tea. An inner light from a surge of acidity and gem-like mineral tones converge from mid-palate to finish.
Dense notes of strawberry and vanilla show earthy undercurrents. White-peppered licorice, hibiscus, and cranberries are cooling factors, while forest floor and Mediterranean herbs create a savory finish.
Plushness without ponderousness appears to be a hallmark of the Rivière style, and this Old Wente clone Chardonnay, aged for 11 months in (29% new) French oak, is a sterling example. Bright fragrances of lime and green apple mingle with richer ones of gardenia and pastry cream, presaging a palate that’s generous yet fresh and clean with lime, lemon, and white peach. Also characteristic of the producer is a lengthy finish, in this case finely marked by white pepper and stony minerality.