Wines indexed catalog

Chardonnay from Columbia Valley, Washington: L'Ecole 41 Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

This elegantly balanced Chardonnay shows robust acidity and purity of fruit with subdued tropical fruit, orange blossom and Asian pear flavors and subtle mineral nuances that gain complexity on a long, robust finish.

The fruit was lightly whole-cluster pressed to tank and allowed to settle. The juice was then racked off of the solids into mostly second and third year French oak barrels where it was aged sur lie and stirred for six months resulting in a rich mouth feel and a creamy full finish.

A fine, easy-drinking, high acid style of Chardonnay, this shows spiced apple and white peach flavors, quaffable and tart. It will taste best with some sort of creamy sauced poultry or seafood.

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Martin Ray Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2006

2010-07-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

Ten months of aging in French oak barrels on the lees develops rounder, creamier texture in the wine. The 2006 Russian River Valley Chardonnay begins with aromas highlighted by fresh melon, apple and vanilla. The wine's superior structure and balance have a backbone of crisp apple, melon and creamy vanilla flavors that continue flawlessly on to a ripe and elegant finish.

A succulent dish of fresh lobster tails with a rich butter sauce would be an excellent match for our Chardonnay.

Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California: Frog's Leap Napa Valley Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Frog's Leap Chardonnay greets you with aromas of wet stone and white peaches layered with delicate notes of honeysuckle. Flavors of grapefruit and lemongrass lead to a taut mouthfeel that touches on layers of flint and toasted coconut. Refreshingly crisp with tart acidity, this wine has a clean bright finish that lingers on the palate. A wine that truly lives up to our mantra about great chardonnays: less butter – more minerality.

A favorite verse in the Tao offers: "We shape clay into a pot but it is the emptiness inside that holds whatever we want. We hammer wood for a house but it is the inner space that makes it livable. We work with being but non-being is what we use."

It is this essential "non-being" that defines our approach to Chardonnay. As winemakers, we recognize our greatest contribution is to impose less of ourselves upon the wine, allowing the Chardonnay its own light, energy, freshness and honesty. Instead of hammering more wood onto the house, we favor restraint and modesty in our winemaking.

We are fond of saying that there is nothing more overrated in Chardonnay than "fruit" and nothing more underrated than "earth." With this goal in mind we selected the Carneros district of the Napa Valley as the primary home for this wine back in 1982. Pure flavors and a clean mouth-feel make this wine ultimately refined, elegant and the ideal complement to a variety of cuisine.

Chardonnay from Carneros, California: Clos Pegase Mitsukos Vineyard Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

On the nose, nectarine, peach and lemon-lime notes are deftly balanced with complex yet integrated charry and toasted French oak. The palate is luscious, vibrant and elegant with great opulence and a rich, long finish.

Sauvignon Blanc from Central Coast, California: Bernardus Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

Our Sauvignon Blanc vineyards enjoyed beautiful conditions from Spring right through harvest in September. As usual, the majority of the grapes are from the Griva vineyard in the Arroyo Seco appellation of the Salinas Valley. This year we also selected grapes from a neighboring vineyard as well as from two vineyards a few miles to the south in slightly warmer locations. All our Sauvignon Blanc grapes are the highly prized Musqué clone. We also continue our tradition of adding a small addition of barrel fermented Napa Semillon to enhance roundness and complexity. A large majority of our lots are cold fermented in stainless steel tanks to enhance and protect the intense varietal characters of these special vineyards. The resulting blend is a wine which exhibits a rich mosaic of aromas and flavors typical of the great Sauvignon Blancs of the world.

Our 2008 expresses the finest varietal aromas of fresh grass, gooseberry, grapefruit and white peach with nuances of melon and our typical hints of Arroyo Seco minerality. The mouthfeel is round and full, with layers of grapefruit, lime and tropical fruit flavors which linger on the long, lush finish.

Bright straw hue. Uplifting scents of white peach and Granny Smith apple. Creamy acidity and juicy flavors of apple cider and nectarine. Hints of vanilla and toasted oak flesh out the lingering close.

Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, California: Hall Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

This vintage of Sauvignon Blanc offers effusive aromas of citrus peel, pink grapefruit and ripe tropical fruits. The palate is lush and layered with guava, gooseberry underpinned by a poetic wet- stone minerality.

Intensely mouthwatering, with peach and tangerine flavors that are ripe and juicy, with a pleasant, fragrant orange blossom note. Drink now.

White Wine from Sicily, Italy: Feudo Sartanna Chardonnay-Grillo 2008

2010-07-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Straw yellow in color with greenish hues. An intense and persistent bouquet of white fruit and citrus blossoms. On the palate, this wine is crisp in character, full and smooth with great balance. Crafted with respect for tradition and with passion for terroir, this wine captures the spirit of Sicily. Perfect as an aperitif, it also makes a splendid companion for seafood pastas, grilled white fish, roast poultry, and vegetarian fare.

70% Chardonnay, 30% Grillo

Chardonnay from California: Joel Gott Monterey Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Our Monterey Chardonnay is fermented in stainless steel, keeping the wine clean and crisp—just like our favorite Chablis. The cool, breezy weather of Monterey Bay allows for a longer period of maturation which allows the grapes more time to develop classic varietal characteristics. The climate produces a Chardonnay with aromas of orange blossom, green apple, and citrus and with a bright acid structure. The vineyards of Monterey consistently provide ideal fruit and exemplify our winemaking goal: a natural balance between sugar and acidity. Because of the low yields from this vintage, the fruit had intensified aromas and flavors, creating a more full-bodied, weighty wine.

Pinot Blanc from Sonoma County, California: Valley of the Moon Pinot Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Pinot Blanc was whole-cluster pressed into stainless steel tanks and fermented at cool temperatures to preserve the varietal fruit aromas and flavors of the grapes. After fermentation portions of the wine lots were aged in French oak and Acacia wood barrels to enhance richness and provide additional complexity to the wine.

Aromas of honeysuckle, guava and Pink Lady apple are accented with hints of mineral and lychee. Integrated and rich fruit flavors of pears, apple and kiwi lead to a lengthy finish balanced.

This perfectly balanced Pinot Blanc pairs well with seafood, shellfish (particularly oysters), poultry, salads, fruits, light pastas and mild cheeses. Its structure and fruity flavors also complement spicy cuisine.

Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa: Thelema Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T13:33:00.000-07:00

A typical Thelema Sauvignon Blanc – lovely fresh melon and grapefruit flavors, with a full, grassy palate, all in perfect balance.

Grapefruit, melon and grass on the nose lead into a balanced, elegant array of tropical fruit, citrus and grass on the palate. All laced together with a dancing acidity and minerality, the wine is both refreshing and contemplative. Melon on the finish gives it extra luxury.

Chenin Blanc from South Africa: Raats Chenin Blanc 2007

2010-07-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

This sublime bottling from Chenin master Bruwer Raats sets the standard for South African Chenin Blanc, consistently garnering 90+ Wine Spectator raves. A portion of the wine is fermented and aged in barrel, resulting in a rich, profound offering that strikes a perfect balance between elegance and power. Luscious flavors of honeyed pear, butterscotch, citrus, and ginger and delicate hints of mineral and spice carry through on the seemingly endless finish.

Very plump and enticing, with citrus peel, quince and golden apple notes followed by a round, fresh finish. Underlying minerality lends an elegant feel. Opens nicely in the glass. Drink now through 2009.

Rhone White Blends from Central Coast, California: Tablas Creek Cotes de Tablas Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Côtes de Tablas Blanc is a blend in the style of French Cotes du Rhone whites, and features intense aromas of stone fruits and minerals, flavors of apricot and Provençal herbs, rich texture, moderate acidity and a long peachy finish.

Pair with Mussels Marinière, green salads with avocado and citrus dressing, scallops, ceviche, light fish (halibut, sole) with tropical salsa.

42% Viognier; 26% Roussanne; 21% Marsanne; 11% Grenache Blanc

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Joseph Drouhin Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche 2006

2010-07-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

"An authentic masterpiece! This wine should be regarded as the yardstick by which all other Burgundies should be judged. The color has a splendid golden sheen. On the nose, a multitude of aromas are a pleasure to discover: floral notes of lily of the valley, peach blossom, exotic fruit, honey, grilled almonds, even exotic woods at times. On the palate, the structure is dominated by a harmonious roundness which never imparts any heaviness. The aftertaste is exceptionally long and enhances the finesse of the whole. A glorious symphony of sensations!"
-Veronique Boss-Drouhin

This world-famous estate belongs to one of the oldest and most aristocratic French families: the Marquis de Laguiche. Out of the 14 different owners, the Marquis de Laguiche family is propriétaire of the largest portion of Le Montrachet, entirely located in Puligny (according to many authorities, the better side). It has been in their hands since 1363.

It is ironical that the hillside of Montrachet, producing Burgundy's most prestigious white wine (and in some say the world's most complex), should look so unprepossessing. The etymology of the place-name is actually instructive : the word rachet refers to a poor type of soil where only scrawny bushes can grow. It is therefore on this "poor, hard, infertile" soil, which geologists call Bathonian limestone, that the Chardonnay grape develops this unique "terroir" character.

Montrachet is full bodied and luscious, yet elegant. It is only after a few years in bottle that it will develop its famous complexity and richness. Nose and aftertaste are reminiscent of exotic fruit, honey, liquorice, grilled almond and many other flavours which wine lovers over the years have attempted to analyse. But it is perhaps a musical word which can best describe this glorious wine: a symphony of sensations.

As good and refined as several of the foregoing wines are, this is the clear class of the cellar with moderate wood notes framing a fresh, intense and airy nose that sports impressive aromatic breadth while merging into exceptionally rich and intense full-bodied flavors that possess seemingly buckets of dry extract which gives the finish a textured and naturally sweet character. A wine of power yet excellent energy and focus and this too is both quite primary and youthfully austere at present. A potentially great Drouhin Montrachet. 94-96

Riesling from Central Coast, California: Oceana Riesling 2007

2010-07-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

This is a dry-styled Riesling with just a hint of sweetness that offers enticing, fragrant aromas of ripe fig and peaches accented by hints of citrus and lovely honeysuckle.

On the graceful palate, the wine's bright key lime pie and peach flavors are heightened by a refreshing minerality that lingers through the crisp finish.

Chardonnay from Central Coast, California: Silver Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

This third vintage follows last year's successful debut of Silver, an effort to unite the crisp mineral essence of classic Chablis style with the tropical elements found in Chardonnay of the Pacific coastline.

Using Chardonnay grown in special blocks of the Mer Soleil Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands of Monterey County, we harvested the grapes when just fully ripe, their gold color hued with green, expressing clean aromas of Chardonnay fruit and firm acidity.

The result is our latest presentation of a Chardonnay we consider as sleek and cool as Silver. -Charlie Wagner II, Winemaker

This unoaked Chardonnay is a light gold color with a pale green tint. Clean, lively aromas of honeydew melon and green apple carry over to delicate tropical fruit flavors of pineapple and papaya, balanced with crisp mineral.

Combines ripe, intense peach, nectarine and tangerine fruit, with touches of floral and spice. Gains body and depth, turning creamy in texture. Drink now through 2012. 18,400 cases made.

Bordeaux White Blends from Walla Walla Valley, Washington: Cadaretta Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon (SBS) 2008

2010-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

The second release of Cadaretta Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon (SBS) carries on the crisp, forward fruit style established by the inaugural vintage. The wine is raised in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve as much lush, varietal fruit character as possible. The 2008 SBS shows citrus-like aromas of tangerine and lime, with layers of pineapple, pear and star fruit enhanced by a hint of white pepper and cut grass. It is dry, clean and crisp on the nose and palate, with a creamy, full-bodied texture. This balanced wine is a great match with food, especially fresh Northwest oysters and other seafood dishes.

Bright, very pale yellow. Pungent aromas of kiwi, lime, pineapple, lemon ice, quinine and spices, plus a hint of fresh herbs. Juicy, bright and penetrating, with excellent focus to the flavors of pineapple, citrus peel, smoke and more exotic fruits. For all its bracing acidity, this very dry wine boasts terrific sappy flavor intensity. I'd drink it in the next year or so for its youthful fruit. A superb example of the non-malolactic style of sauvignon blanc.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Joseph Drouhin Clos des Mouches Premier Cru Blanc 2007

2010-07-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

Admirably situated on a hill between Pommard and Beaune, with a direct southern exposure, Clos des Mouches is one of the most famous Premier Cru vineyards of Beaune. The name "Clos des Mouches" probably goes back to the beginning of the Middle-Ages (around 1550) because of its slopes facing South/South-East: a very favourable place for keeping bees. The word "Mouches" (Flies) was actually the local name for bees. As bee keepers started to set up their bee-hives, the area became known as "Clos des Mouches" (i.e. the Enclosure of the Honey Bees).

After the destruction of the Burgundy vineyards due to the phylloxera epidemic of 1875-1880, Clos des Mouches was entirely replanted with Pinot Noir. Having fortunately come across some ancient documents which revealed that the vineyard had previously produced an excellent white wine, Maurice Drouhin, in 1921, began replanting with some Chardonnay. The result was of exceptional quality. To-day, there is an almost equal balance between white and red.

Some of the stocks he planted are still alive to-day. They constitute a precious genetic pool, especially when grafted onto superior root-stocks. They are not vigorous and produce tiny berries with a thick skin. The density of plantation is high and the yield is low.

Soil doesn't change much in the Clos. Lighter and stony at the top, coloured with broken stones at the bottom, with a good variety of chalky marls bringing complexity. Once harvested, the white grapes are crushed in a pneumatic press. The juice obtained is then fermented in oak barrels for a year during which the malolactic fermentation will take place.

An outstanding wine. Pale yellow color. Complex floral nose of white lilac and white rose. Once open, fruity aromas come to the fore, evolving towards grilled hazelnut and almond. When the wine is more mature, the nose is surprisingly strong and fifteen minutes of aeration produce wonderful notes of white truffle, citron, honey and nutmeg, elegantly meshed together. Very lively on the palate. Its rich texture is in evidence, but also its structure and minerality. It is round, but never heavy. Harmonious fullness in the aftertaste.

The 2007 Beaune Clos des Mouches is first and foremost an unusually powerful and broad wine for its vintage, as well as not coincidentally the highest in alcohol – at 13.75% – of this year’s Drouhin collection. It also displays musky and carnal elements and a seductively satiny texture in common with a number of its stable mates. Yet there is still a refreshing core of citrus present and a genuine sense of lift to the finish here at the same time that its grapefruit rind, toasted praline, and chalk dust seem to adhere indelibly. This should be fascinating wine to follow for the better part of then next decade, if not beyond.

White Wine from Rioja, Spain: Muga Blanco 2009

2010-07-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

Aromas which tell us that it has spent a little time in the oak, cloaking it with a veneer of vanilla. A very bright, clear white wine which is packed with aromas of citrus and white-fleshed fruit, pears and their hearts. With freshness, a freshness which lingers on the palate, with these citrus nuances which are alive, with this passion which is expressed in all its elements. A magical, really fruity white.

Sauvignon Blanc from California: Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

Succulent melon, ripe pear and fresh lemon grass mingle together in this medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc. Fresh lime complements the subtle mineral quality while added layers of fig and honeysuckle round out this crisp, aromatic wine.

Chardonnay from Carneros, California: Neyers Carneros Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T06:57:00.000-07:00

There's no great secret about what we do with Chardonnay at Neyers Vineyards: we rely on traditional French winemaking practices that in most instances have been in use for over a century. The fruit is completely protected from vine to winery. Although machines are increasingly used in the industry, our grapes are hand harvested. They are delivered to the winery only in the morning when temperatures are cooler. They are transported in small bins that hold only 1000 pounds. The juice is gently pressed from the grapes and transferred by air pump to our French oak barrels, which are custom-made from three-year-air-dried wood. The primary and secondary fermentations occur naturally, using native micro-flora found on the grape skins. The wine is removed from the barrels a year later for the first and only time, when we bottle.

This year's Carneros District Chardonnay looks to extend our successful run. The fruit used here is from vineyards owned and farmed by the Sangiacomo, Donnell, Yamakawa and Schrem families. The soils are all a combination of clay and loam. The wine is characterized by its exotic tropical fruit aromas and luscious, round flavors. There's a white peach component in the aftertaste, and the finish includes a touch of grilled bread. Delicious!

Complex and layered, offering a full-bodied mix of toasty vanilla oak, ripe pear and fig, with touches of floral and spice. Ends with a complex finish. Drink now through 2012. 5,600 cases made.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Domaine Colin Bourisse Pouilly Fuisse White Burgundy 2007

2010-07-30T06:56:00.000-07:00

Light golden color. Intense nose with floral notes and hints of honey and some spices. A round mouth with an excellent body and length. Ready to drink 3 months after bottling, with 2 to 4 years keeping potential. Typical green-gold color. Elegant and attractive bouquet of hazelnuts and toasted almonds, of acacia and white lilies. It is rich, and has a smooth texture. It has a well defined chardonnay character, with pure, fresh, complex flavors. Excellent balance and good length! In short, a superb white burgundy offering a very good quality/price ratio.

Viognier from North Coast, California: Cline Viognier 2009

2010-07-30T06:55:00.000-07:00

Cline Viognier shows big pineapple, peach and apricot flavors mixed with citrus and fl oral notes. This full-bodied flavorful wine is an excellent match for Mediterranean stews, Thai curry and spicy Mexican dishes.

White Wine from Sicily, Italy: Regaleali Bianco 2008

2010-07-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

Straw yellow in color with a delicate and persistent bouquet of green apples, peach, pear and citrus, Regaleali Bianco is dry and crisp with excellent structure and a superb fruity finish. Clean and refreshing, Regaleali is great for antipasti, Asian cuisine, fish, shellfish, octopus salad, and vegetables. A blockbuster and a terrific value.

The 2008 Regaleali Bianco is classy and elegant in its perfumed notes of peach, flowers and mint. Medium in body, the wine offers excellent balance and a long, refreshing finish. The Bianco is 40% Inzolia, 30% Catarratto and 30% Grecanico, and is aged in steel. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011.

Tasca d'Almerita is a reference-point producer in Sicily. I have been tasting and drinking these wines since about as long as I can remember, which means 20+ years.

Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California: St. Clement Napa Valley Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T06:49:00.000-07:00

This Chardonnay is barrel fermented in 30 percent new French oak, and approximately 85 percent of the blend through malolactic fermentation. The finished wine shows luscious aromas of ripe red apple, cantaloupe, fresh citrus and vanilla bean. On the palate, a creamy mouthfeel introduces flavors of honeydew, pear tarte tatin, lime zest and vanilla spice. The wine finishes with vibrant acidity and a touch of minerality.

Chardonnay from North Coast, California: Toad Hollow Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

100% malolactic treatment and was left on the "lees" for eight months. This was done to maintain the acidity and to give the wine the middle mouth complexity desired.

Nine months in all STAINLESS STEEL TANKS. NO WOOD!

We are now drinking our 2003 vintage Chardonnay. The wines are long lived, especially at the price point.

White Wine from Spain: Torres Sangre de Toro White 2008

2010-07-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Fruity aroma with hints of apple and pineapple. Smooth, balanced palate with a fine acidic edge. Best served chilled.Excellent as an aperitif and acompaniment for rice dishes, seafood and fish.

Winemaker's comments: In 1954 my father, Miguel Torres, was travelling extensively, through winding mountain tracks in the quest to find the most highly-prized grapes in the region. His intention was to create a different wine, one that was the authentic expression of the character of this land. This led to the birth of "Sangre de Toro", whose name was inspired by Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, known in ancient times as "The son of the Bull". Today Sangre de Toro continues to be wholly produced at the family's winery, with the care and attention to detail that have given this great wine its fame.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Oregon: Rex Hill Pinot Gris 2009

2010-07-30T06:44:00.000-07:00

The REX HILL Willamette Valley Pinot Gris harmonizes the rich, ripe fruit from the 2009 vintage with stunning focus and acidity. The nose is a complex bloom of fresh orange, pineapple, and minerals. On the palate, the wine is succulent and juicy but bright with Kaffir lime, mango and lemon blossom. Lingering high notes of spiced ginger tea move seamlessly into a clean, bright crisp finish. Wonderful right now but will gain in dimension and complexity over the next five years.

Riesling from Willamette Valley, Oregon: Pacific Rim Daunenhauer Vineyard Riesling 2007

2010-07-30T06:42:00.000-07:00

It is always interesting and challenging to make a Riesling from a very different climate such as the wet and cool Willamette Valley. Because of the climate conditions, we have decided to pick the grapes for this wine early (at about 19 Brix) and craft the wine in a German Kabinett style.

The wine shows intense notes of apple, honey and grapefruit. This is a sweet wine with an incredible acidity and low pH . making it taste quite dry for its Residual Sugar. The wine has the potential to age for 30 years (if you are patient enough).

Try this wine with some dry fruits, some cheeses (goat cheeses are best), ice cream would also work wonders. This would also make a great aperitif.

The alcohol is 8.8%, acid is 0.84%, pH is 2.81 and Residual Sugar 5.2%

Lively, tangy and generous with its pear and pineapple flavors, finishing with pizzazz. Drink now through 2013.

Chenin Blanc from South Africa: Raats Chenin Blanc 2007

2010-07-30T06:41:00.000-07:00

White Wine from Tuscany, Italy: Antinori Santa Cristina Orvieto Classico Campogrande 2008

2010-07-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

A blend of 40% Procanico, 40% Grechetto, 15% Verdello and 5% Drupeggio and Malvasia.

Campogrande shows with hues of straw yellow with greenish-golden highlights. The aroma is characterized by floral notes.

White Wine from Argentina, South America: Trumpeter Torrontes 2008

2010-07-30T06:37:00.000-07:00

The indigenous white grape of Argentina. Its character and flavors lie somewhere in between Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. A fragrant, floral nose with ripe peach aromas and a touch of rose and lychee. Fresh and smooth on the palate, with citrus fruit flavors, hints of minerals and a mild, pleasing acidity. A nicely balanced wine with a clean finish.

Gruner Veltliner from Austria: Laurenz V Charming Grüner Veltliner 2006

2010-07-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Laurenz V. Charming Grüner Veltliner has aromas of ripe apples and a typical Veltliner spiciness that marry to create a fascinating fruit bouquet. On the palate, the wine is soft and juicy, supported by a fine fruit acidity. Very harmonious, allowing for perfectly smooth drinking.

Chardonnay from Australia: Robert Oatley Mudgee Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

Winemaking notes: A variety of winemaking regimes were employed to produce a complex, yet fruit driven style. The fruit was grown on Oatley family vineyards and harvested at optimum ripeness. Half of the blend was fermented in stainless steel, around a third barrel fermented and the remainder cold fermented then aged in one-third brand new French oak. Much of the blend underwent a secondary fermentation that softened the wine's acidity and gives a delicious creamy texture.

Bordeaux White Blends from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France: Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion Blanc 2005

2010-07-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

Concentrated, golden yellow color. Ripe fruit aromas with hints of mushroom. Round, rich, and concentrated on the palate with candied lemon and yellow fruit flavors. Very long, oaky, caramelised aftertaste

Attractive rosemary and thyme aromas lead to a very fresh wine with a herbal element. Excellent, with delicious fruit.

Chardonnay from Oregon: A to Z Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

The 2008 A to Z Oregon Chardonnay has an expansive aromatic profile of lime blossoms, wet stones, lemon honey, tangerine, guava, granny smith apple and brioche. In the mouth, the wine is bright and intense with good complexity and balance between acid and richness. Classic Oregon steely Chardonnay with a long, clean finish with lingering mineral and citrus notes.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Willamette Valley, Oregon: A to Z Pinot Gris 2009

2010-07-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

The 2009 A to Z Oregon Pinot Gris shimmers in the glass with pear, ginger, almond and vanilla aromas. Juicy, bright and succulent on the attack, this wine showcases flavors of tangerine, melon, pineapple and wet stone. The wine is framed by ripe acidity giving classic Oregon Pinot Gris proportions and lift to the richness. The long finish slides effortlessly from the mid-palate with lingering impressions of tantalizing, pure, intense fruit.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Veneto, Italy: Torresella Pinot Grigio 2008

2010-07-30T00:59:00.001-07:00

Color: A clear, dry white wine with a pale straw color.

Aroma: Characteristic mellow aroma.

Taste: Smooth, delicate, fresh and well-balanced. Excellent with fish and light soups.

White Wine from Southern Italy, Italy: Poderi Foglia Concabianco 2009

2010-07-30T00:57:00.000-07:00

On the organic vineyards in Conca a classic Falanghina DOC is produced and rounded of by the maximum of allowed percentage of Pallagrello Bianco grown in the same vineyards, adding a fatter and exotic sensation to the mid palate. Here in Conca the volcanic soils are of higher calcareous content, with significant overlay of maritime sediments, yielding a fragrant and exotic version of Falanghina in this all stainless steel wine.

The estate's 2009 Falanghina Concabianco is marvelous. Clean, minerally notes frame expressive white peaches, flowers, mint and ash, all of which come together in grand style. The finish is focused yet rich and textured. Simply put, everything is perfectly balanced in this fine, pedigreed white. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2015.

This small estate is located in the prestigious Terra di Lavoro district on the foothills of the Roccamonfina volcano.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Willamette Valley, Oregon: Sineann Pinot Gris 2009

2010-07-30T00:55:00.000-07:00

In its youth, the wine is very aromatic, a bit like a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, though with a Pinot Gris twist. Also like an NZ SB, the wine has wonderfully refreshing natural acidity, which should take it far with a variety of foods. In addition to the acidity and aromatics, the Pinot Gris has wonderful depth and complexity of fruit with a terrific texture.

The wine goes great with sushi, not a big surprise as PG goes so well with fish.

White Wine from Rioja, Spain: Montecillo Blanco 2007

2010-07-30T00:54:00.000-07:00

Pale yellow in color with green highlights, clean and brilliant. Fruity citrus aromas. Fresh on the palate with well balanced acidity, subtle citrus flavors and a very pleasant, ample finish.

Consume young and serve chilled. Especially enjoyable as an apéritif or when paired with grilled or sautéed fish, shellfish and fresh cheeses.

Chardonnay from Santa Maria Valley, California: Cambria Katherine's Vineyard Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-30T00:52:00.000-07:00

Our 2007 Katherine's Chardonnay shows the concentration and character of this superb vintage. The nose is deeply aromatic with apples, peaches, lime blossoms and vanilla. The palate is intense and powerful, yet surprisingly elegant and nuanced.

Attractive bronze hue. Pretty scents of toasted bread and grain with a whiff of wet stone. Well-balanced entry of sweet/sour citrus with flint undertones. Crisp close with light oak and mineral nuances.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Domaine Colin Bourisse Pouilly Fuisse White Burgundy 2006

2010-07-30T00:51:00.000-07:00

Rhone White Blends from Cotes du Rhone, Rhone, France: Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2009

2010-07-30T00:49:00.000-07:00

Loyal followers of the GUIGAL Côtes-du-Rhône will enjoy this wine which flatters as much as its famous red cousin!

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Tuscany, Italy: Banfi San Angelo Pinot Grigio 2008

2010-07-30T00:48:00.000-07:00

Pale yellow-straw in color. Fresh, fruit-forward bouquet with notes of pear, banana, peach, anise, and honey. Rich and full-bodied, with a long finish.

San Angelo Pinot Grigio is a delightful complement to light dishes, such as grilled vegetables and pasta primavera, as well as a range of seafood. It also makes a superb aperitif.

Viognier from Barossa Valley, Australia: Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2009

2010-07-30T00:46:00.000-07:00

The 2009 vintage of Eden Valley Viognier is perfumed and luscious - displaying all the essence of the Viognier variety. It has pure aromas of apricot nectar, lifted honeysuckle and orange oil perfume. The palate is long, rich and luscious, with intense stone fruit - particularly apricots - finishing with an aromatic citrus freshness.

This wine will continue to grow and develop in the bottle firstly showing enhanced apricots and spice, then after a couple of years developing honey flavors and toast.

Perfect with Moroccan food, spiced duck and anything lamb.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Macon-Lugny Les Charmes Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T00:44:00.000-07:00

Richer and more intense than most Macons. Medium body, clean and fresh. Serve well chilled as an aperitif, or with seafood dishes without rich sauces, chicken, veal and pork.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Bouchard Pere & Fils Pouilly-Fuisse 2006

2010-07-30T00:43:00.000-07:00

100% Chardonnay

Typical aromas, with fruit and floral notes. A very perfumed, silky and elegant wine. To be drunk preferably in its youth for its freshness.

Pair with freshwater fish, shellfish of all kinds, pâtés and terrines.

Chardonnay from California: Newton Red Label Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T00:42:00.000-07:00

Enticing notes of ripe pear and green apple mingle with light butterscotch, vanilla and almond aromas. On the palate, ripe pear combines with pie crust and golden delicious apple flavors, accented by a hint of orange zest.

The layers of flavor and appealing texture persist throughout the plush, creamy finish.

The subtle acidity and creamy finish in this well-balanced Chardonnay make it a versatile, food-friendly choice. We suggest pairing this wine with seafood like baked halibut, roasted poultry or richer pasta dishes with a cream sauce.

Sauvignon Blanc from Martinborough, New Zealand: Martinborough Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-30T00:41:00.000-07:00

Martinborough Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is made in a riper, more complex style of new world Sauvignon Blanc. Our Sauvignon Blanc exhibits perfumed aromas of passionfruit and gooseberry with hints of tropical notes. On the palate the ripe fruit character is beautifully balanced against creamy notes from the barrel fermentation portion creating a harmonious and balanced wine with great length and texture.

Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa: Buitenverwachting Sauvignon Blanc 2009

2010-07-30T00:39:00.000-07:00

This crisp, zesty Sauvignon Blanc hails from the cool coastal area of Constantia. The racy bottling displays textbook flavors of gooseberry and lime, with grassy, herbal undertones and elegant notes of mineral and chalk. This wine makes a great match for grilled or pan-seared fish dishes.

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Valley of the Moon Unoaked Chardonnay 2009

2010-07-30T00:38:00.000-07:00

White plum, citrus and mineral notes highlight the delicate aromas of this fresh and vibrant wine. On the palate, complex fruit flavors of nectarine, kiwi, and green apple carry the bright acidity through the creamy pear tart richness of the mid-palate and finish.

The bright acid and rich finish make this Unoaked Chardonnay a delightful accompaniment to salads, seafood, spicy Asian dishes and cream-based pastas.

White Wine from Sardinia, Italy: Sella & Mosca La Cala Vermentino 2007

2010-07-30T00:37:00.000-07:00

Color: Pale straw gold with light green reflections

Aroma: Delightful, floral

Taste: Crisp and dry with youthful vitality and freshness

Vermentino wines are a versatile match for a wide array of appetizers and entrees, especially shellfish and seafood dishes.

Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: J.J. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spatlese Riesling 2007

2010-07-30T00:36:00.000-07:00

Despite its still youthful freshness, this rich and at the same time elegant Spätlese (literally: "late-harvest")from the famous Wehlener Sonnenuhr vineyard shows a fine fruity, floral Riesling characteristic and an underlying hint of mineral from the grey Devonian slate soil.

Serve this refreshing wine slightly chilled! Enjoy it just by itself, if young with spicy dishes and - especially when more matured - in combination with seafood or poultry, but also red meat.

Some of Prüm's releases in this decade have been more fruit-forward and less overtly yeasty than in the past, but this wine feels like a Prüm Spätlese of old: Tightly restrained and stubbornly closed behind a wall of youthful fermentation aromas, it takes its time to reveal subtle detail and silky depth of fruit. It's infused by the haunting blue-slate character for which the vineyard is renowned, and while it undoubtedly packs more richness and ripeness than a Prüm wine of 20 years ago, it maintains a similar feeling of delicacy, purity and grace.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Yarra Valley, Australia: Innocent Bystander Pinot Gris 2009

2010-07-30T00:34:00.000-07:00

Fresh Nashi pears, apples and pickled ginger on the nose with notes of apple crumble and jasmine flowers. The palate offers crunchy texture with zingy, racy acidity, lime zest, Granny Smith apples and fresh celery hearts. Notes of crushed Kaffir lime leaves and honeydew finish with cold slate and minerals. Ideal with sashimi, freshly shucked oysters and fresh goat’s curd brushetta.

Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: S.A. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett Riesling 2007

2010-07-30T00:33:00.000-07:00

Color: Bright gold

Aroma: Fresh and pleasantly fruity

Taste: Flavors of lemon and peach against a mineral backdrop

Well-matched with salads, seafood and light veal dishes

Alcohol: 8.5%

Four 2007 kabinetts from the Sonnenuhr vineyard in one flight, and all scored 90 points or better, including this beauty, which features white peaches, honeysuckle and a squirt of lime to go along with pear and vanilla notes. It’s round and lush yet balanced, if somewhat on the rich, sweet side.

Chardonnay from Sonoma County, California: Simi Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-30T00:32:00.000-07:00

Brilliantly clear, light yellow straw. Fresh green apple, nectarine, Meyer lemon and orange zest are laced with notes of vanilla, honey and toasted brioche with a lifted mineral edge. Golden delicious apple and tangerine are lightly warmed with subtle notes of cream, butter and smoke finishing with a note of lime zest.

Riesling from Australia: Mesh Eden Valley Riesling 2008

2010-07-30T00:30:00.000-07:00

The 2008 mesh Eden Valley Riesling is green and vibrant in appearance. The aroma is zesty lemon and grapefruit with a hint of spice. The palate is powerful, lively and generous, with intense citrus fruit flavors. The wine finishes clean and dry with refreshing slatey acidity.

As is the case with all great Eden Valley Rieslings, mesh will age gracefully and reliably into a mature wine under the Stelvin closure.

Dry and bracing, this brims with pineapple, green apple and floral aromas and flavors, tightly packed in a taut frame. Needs time. Best from 2011 through 2018. 2,800 cases made.

Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: Schmitt Sohne Thomas Schmitt Riesling QbA 2007

2010-07-30T00:29:00.000-07:00

Medium-bodied Riesling has peach and apple aromas, a firm and fruity palate and crisp acidity that result in a well balanced easy to drink wine.

Chardonnay from Burgundy, France: Be Friends Be Friends Chardonnay Village 2005

2010-07-30T00:28:00.000-07:00

Crisp and subtle, with aromas of new pears and peaches and a hint of citrus. Perfect by itself or enjoyed chilled with fish, shellfish, chicken, salads or mild hard cheeses.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy: Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio 2007

2010-07-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

Appearance: Straw yellow with golden hues

Nose: Elegant, ample and complex with notes of wild rose and acacia flowers; hints of tropical fruit, peach, apricot, licorice, anise and white pepper.

Palate: Elegant, full, with good acidic balance; excellent retro-nasal aromatics; persistent aftertaste with spicy notes of peach, apricot and bergamot

Serving suggestions: A particularly good match for fish, seafood starters, risottos and baked vegetables.

Chardonnay from Sicily, Italy: Planeta Cometa 2007

2010-07-30T00:23:00.000-07:00

Deep straw yellow with prominent greenish hue.

Dramatically explosive. Bursts of citrus fruit, particularly grapefruit and green mandarin. Lychee. Followed by balsamic, spicy features including lavender, oregano and ginger. Hints of camomile flower.

Agile and witty. Clear mineral tones enhance its freshness. Gathering finish. Powerful and controlled.

One of the best white wines to come from Sicily, and Italy for that matter, Cometa is a layered and complex warm-climate white with ripe and generous tones of mature peach, lemon zest, almond, pear, vanilla and honey that fit together in perfect harmony. It's well crafted and beautifully textured and pairs with creamy lobster bisque. - Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast

White Wine from Tuscany, Italy: Livernano L'Anima Bianco 2007

2010-07-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

One of Tuscany's few high level whites, the L'Anima Bianco is a blend of barrel aged Chardonnay with Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer finished in stainless steel. Superbly rich, complex and elegant.

The fragrant nose shows notes of flowers, fruits and boisè. The tangy palate with, refreshing acidity is followes by a wonderful, lingering finish.

Blend: 60% Chardonnay, 35% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Gewurztraminer

Toffee, peach and honey aromas follow through to a full body, with excellent fruit and juicy acidity. Stylish white. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewürztraminer. Drink now. 500 cases made.

White Wine from Veneto, Italy: Suavia Soave Classico 2008

2010-07-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

The color is pale yellow with green hues. The nose is fresh, intense and continues with hints of fresh flowers and a hint of anise. The taste is dry, fresh, long and medium-bodied.

Starts with a delicate floral and mineral nose, which follows through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with an exquisite, silky texture and a dense but subtle underlay of creamy mineral. Finely balanced, with peachy fruit and creamy almond character lingering on the finish. Drink now.

Sauvignon Blanc from Loire, France: Pascal Jolivet Pouilly Fume 2007

2010-07-29T01:33:00.000-07:00

Pale straw in color. Piquant, minerally, austere, and very clean nose. The palate is open, fresh, and direct, with ripe fruit flavor. Clean biting finish; very youthful; minerally flavors resurface.

Food pairings: Sushi, shellfish, pork, fish, Asian cuisine.

Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California: Markham Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:32:00.000-07:00

Color: Straw Yellow.

Nose: Golden apple, caramel and honeyed apricots are infused with loads of vanilla and toasty oak.

Palate: Full mid-palate flavors are generous and juicy while still allowing crisp apple notes to shine through.

Chardonnay from Carneros, California: MacRostie Chardonnay (375ML half-bottle) 2007

2010-07-29T01:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a deep and very nicely balanced Chardonnay that hits all the right varietal and winemaking markers without resorting to runaway ripeness, overdone oak or any enological tricks. Its very rich and well-composed flavors feature lots of energetic apple-like fruit juxtaposed with complementary touches of vanilla and spice, and its overall impression of depth and structural firmness argue for better to come if allowed a few years of cellar time.

Chardonnay from Central Coast, California: Gainey Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:30:00.000-07:00

Our 2008 Gainey Chardonnay is a prime example. Its wonderfully complex, seductive nose features perfumed, almost incense-like, aromas of yellow apple, lemon zest, orange blossom, pineapple and honeyed peach, coated with a light layer of buttery crème anglaise. On the svelte, beautifully composed palate, concentrated ripe apple, pineapple and white peach flavors swell in the mid-palate en route to an extremely long finish awash in a perfect mix of rich peach, refreshing mineral and sweet oak tones. Appropriating a phrase used in a zillion commercials, this is a "lip-smacking good" Chardonnay—one proving that, in the wacky world of wine, you just never know.

White Wine from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy: Jermann Vintage Tunina 2006

2010-07-29T01:29:00.001-07:00

Brilliant straw yellow in color, with golden reflections. Intense, ample, very elegant and persistent, with scents of honey and country flowers. On the palate it is dry, mellow, well balanced, with extraordinary persistence thanks to the full body.

Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2008

Really complex, with apple tart, apricot, lavender, hints of cream and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and character. There's masses of spicy mineral and fruity character, yet this is refined and balanced. Gorgeous. Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Ribolla Gialla, Malvasia and Picolit. Drink now.

White Wine from Rias Baixas, Spain: Pazo de Galegos Albarino 2008

2010-07-29T01:27:00.000-07:00

This 100% Albarino is a truly distinctive and expressive wine coming from low-yielding vines. Through the use of partial malolactic fermentation this wine exhibits greater freshness and aromatic expression. This straw-colored wine boasts aromas of green apple, light citrus, and floral undertones. On the palate this wine is the epitome of freshness with a lightly tart expression of that same green apple and citrus. The somewhat higher acidity is cause for celebration as this wine will pair wonderfully with any number of spicy or richer foods.

Greenish yellow. Spicy grapefruit, lime and mineral aromas are complemented by white flowers and quinine. Refreshingly firm and bright, offering zesty citrus and green apple flavors and good back-end clarity and cut. Gains weight and power with air, finishing with a strong kick of dusty minerals and very good persistence.

Sauvignon Blanc from Chile, South America: Terranoble Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2010-07-29T01:26:00.000-07:00

This wine is straw yellow with greenish tones. This Sauvignon Blanc has fruit aromas, that vary from tropical fruits to lime, grapefruits and subtle notes of aparaguses. On the palate, it has a fresh and balanced acidity, with flavors of citrus fruits with herbal notes. A fresh wine, with a medium structure and long finish.

Based in Maule, Terranoble purchases sauvignon in the cooler Casablanca Valley to make this simple, herbal white. Enjoy its generous weight and fresh acidity with grilled scallops.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy: Maso Canali Pinot Grigio 2008

2010-07-29T01:25:00.000-07:00

A blend of 91.6% Pinot Grigio and 8.4% Chardonnay.

Maso Canali 2008 Pinot Grigio has a brilliant pale golden color. The nose delivers nectarine and light citrus, and the wine is characterized by enticing flavors of lemon and fresh apple, with floral notes. It is well-balanced with depth on the palate, fresh acidity and a long clean finish.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Oregon: Solena Cellars Pinot Gris 2008

2010-07-29T01:24:00.000-07:00

2008 will be remembered as one of the best growing seasons Oregon has seen since 1999. The select vineyard sites used to produce the Pinot Gris experienced a cool spring, which put bud break behind schedule. Bud break was followed by days of overcast weather making June and July two of the coolest summer months in recent history. Only 1.5 inches of rain fell during the autumn months resulting in considerably less precipitation than forecasts predicted. Oregon experienced one of the longest harvests on record and we were able to pick at our leisure as grapes reached full potential. All fruit was harvested under ideal conditions.

The 2008 Pinot Gris displays aromatics of green apple, pink grapefruit and citrus. In the mouth, the wine has great balance; appealing fruit and a pleasing acidity, creating a mouth feel that is clean and refreshing while maintaining weight and substance that carry through the long finish. The wine pairs beautifully with our fresh Northwest seafood - try it with scallops, crab and even salmon!

As classy a bottle as you might expect from veteran winemaker Laurent Montalieu. Once again the fruit is crystal clear, setting up fresh pear, green apple and pink grapefruit flavors against crisp, juicy acidity. The finish is lively and spicy.

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Clos du Bois Calcaire Vineyard Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-29T01:23:00.001-07:00

Hand-selected from premium vineyards in Russian River Valley, Calcaire exemplifies the crisp, fresh fruit flavors associated with cool climate Chardonnay. Malolactic fermentation, aging in French oak and aging on the lees creates a creamy and toasty wine. Calcaire offers fine structure and rich, spicy aromas that complement the crisp fruit flavors.

Chardonnay from Central Coast, California: J. Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:20:00.000-07:00

The 2008 J. Lohr Estates Riverstone Chardonnay has a very youthful straw yellow color. The aromas are of ripe bosc pear, fuji apple, lime and honeysuckle combined with the perfumed vanilla and toasty oak bouquet from the barrel fermentation, malolactic fermentation and sur lie aging creating an elegant Chardonnay from Monterey's Arroyo Seco AVA. The flavors are very clean with ripe pear, subtle floral notes and vanilla toastiness, producing layers of complexity with an excellent balance of fresh fruit acidity and palate-weight. This wine is ideal for pairing with oven-roasted chicken, Dungeness crab or grilled salmon.

White Wine from Sardinia, Italy: Argiolas Costamolino Vermentino 2008

2010-07-29T01:19:00.000-07:00

Yellow in color with a slight greenish tinge. Subtle, intense and delicate bouquet with good primary and secondary aromas. Fresh, dry, well-defined palate with pleasant delicacy and crispness.

Chardonnay from California: Spellbound Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:17:00.000-07:00

Our 2008 Spellbound Chardonnay features bright and lush tropical fruits with notes of vanilla and classic crème brulee. Enjoy this wine on its own or with a variety of cuisine from the Pacific Rim to the fiery Southwest.

Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California: Frog's Leap Napa Valley Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-29T01:15:00.000-07:00

The 2007 Frog's Leap Chardonnay greets you with aromas of wet stone and white peaches layered with delicate notes of honeysuckle. Flavors of grapefruit and lemongrass lead to a taut mouthfeel that touches on layers of flint and toasted coconut. Refreshingly crisp with tart acidity, this wine has a clean bright finish that lingers on the palate. A wine that truly lives up to our mantra about great chardonnays: less butter – more minerality.

Richer and firmer than past bottlings, Frog’s Leap ’07 Chard is their best ever. It shows a sleek minerality undergirding ripe green apple, pear and smoky vanilla flavors. Very nice.

Chardonnay from California: Smoking Loon Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:14:00.000-07:00

Creamy, bright aromas of vanilla bean poached pear and fresh brioche bread waft out of the glass, with a slight hint of nutmeg in the background. Full of flavor on the palate, Meyer lemon, caramel apple, and smoky vanilla oak are all tightly intertwined. The four unique California appellations in this blend contribute balanced citrus acidity, fruit avor, and oak nuance to this Chardonnay. A touch of tangerine peel shows on the mid-palate, while lemon meringue lingers in the complex finish. Medium-bodied overall, 75% of this wine went through malolactic fermentation before aging for 9 months on the lees of the grapes for added depth and roundness.

The mellow acidity and balance of toast and citrus in this Chardonnay make it a great wine to stand alone or pair nicely with food. A chicken sandwich with grilled pineapple would complement this wine well, as would a Caesar salad with grilled shrimp. For people who appreciate wine without the pretense, Smoking Loon is the full-bodied California varietal wine that celebrates independent character and a Bohemian personality by going beyond a single plot of land or a château, to explore the best vineyards in each vintage through our négociant relationships.

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Lake Sonoma Russian River Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-29T01:13:00.000-07:00

Rich, warm oak aromas give way to a complex nose of lavender, honey, brown butter and pears. The mouth suggests Red Delicious apples with hints of clove, toasted walnuts and tropical fruits, balanced by lively acidity in the finish.

This Chardonnay pairs readily with a variety of foods including fresh fruit, green salads, lighter pasta, poultry, pork and seafood.

Riesling from Australia: Kilikanoon Mort's Block Riesling 2008

2010-07-29T01:11:00.000-07:00

One of the cornerstones of Kilikanoon's portfolio, the Mort's Block Riesling showcases the unique flavors and characters so unique to the Watervale sub region of the Clare Valley.

This single vineyard wine, produced from low yielding fruit from forty year old Riesling vines from the Mort's Block Vineyard, is pale straw in color with brilliant clarity and youthful greens tints.

Intensely varietal, exhibiting ripe citrus, limes and floral notes

A long and full flavored palate balanced beautifully by crisp natural acidity.

Pale straw-green; the clean bouquet leads into a highly focused palate with a core of lime citrus fruit and almost juicy acidity on the finish.

Riesling from Margaret River, Australia: Leeuwin Estate Art Series Riesling 2006

2010-07-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

A wine of brilliant clarity. Color is a very pale straw with green tinges. The nose shows lifted aromas of citrus blossom, honeysuckle, and lime mixed with a mineral edge, which are indicators of an excellent wine. Displaying classic Riesling flavors of lemon and lime, the palate enjoys great intensity and depth of flavor. The exceptional length finishes with a clean and crisp acidity. This style of wine particularly lends itself to be enjoyed with freshly shucked oysters and Asian dishes.

Bright straw-green; fresh, crisp, bright and lively; citrus and mineral flavours with good length; the best-seller in the Leeuwin stable. Screwcap.

Rhone White Blends from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France: Ch. La Nerthe Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2007

2010-07-29T01:09:00.000-07:00

Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc is is a little known but striking wine. Blended from Grenache Blanc, Boubelenc, Roussanne & Clairette, the wine's unique spicy yet floral qualities make it a crowd pleaser and its firm acidity provides the structure for a rare white which can benefit from a small amount of aging.

Wine with a bright yellow dress, limpid and young hints. Intense bouquet of spring and white flowers, apple, pear, light woody notes and vanilla. On the palate, a frank attack and a real volume, aromas of fresh fruits and white peach with subtle barrel notes. A wine with a long elegant finish

Very bright and pure, with a stony beam that drives the quince, green and yellow apple, honeysuckle and heather notes. The long finish has mouthwatering minerality. Drink now through 2011. 1,666 cases made

Bordeaux White Blends from Barossa Valley, Australia: St. Hallett Poachers Blend 2007

2010-07-29T01:07:00.000-07:00

The Poacher's Blend is a classic Australian medium dry white made for immediate enjoyment.

Blended from Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes picked in the cool of night it is a crisp, clean wine that is an easy drinking delight. Full flavored with lifted tropical, lime and citrus flavors St. Hallett has created this wine to marry with the freshwater crustaceans and fish that are regularly "poached" from the creeks and waterways of landowners in the country and believed to be a legitimate, heritage pastime in Australia.

Alternately as an aperitif, or with a variety of fish and seafoods the Poacher's Blend is a bright enticing mouthful of Barossa flavor.

White Wine from Australia: Shoofly Buzz Cut 2008

2010-07-29T01:06:00.000-07:00

A wildly aromatic blend of Verdelho, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay and Semillon. The fruit is sourced from McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek, fermented in stainless steel and bottled fresh and young for immediate enjoyment. It's a lush blend showing juicy, tropical flavors, exotic perfume and a refreshing, structured palate.

Light yellow. Pungent aromas of pear, apple and floral honey. Light-bodied, refreshingly bitter orchard fruit and lemon flavors are deepened by a sweeter melon quality. A touch dry on the finish, which is refreshingly nervy and clean.

Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2008

2010-07-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

Aromas reminiscent of nectarine, mango, lime-tree blossom, mace, clove and flint stone. Complex mineral structure with a vibrant and tensional acidity, full bodied, juicy and rich.

Food recommendation: Honey Pear with Ginger Ice Cream, Cardamom Granola Nougat Filled Curd Cheese Dumpling with Preserved Spicy Oranges and Vanilla Ice Cream.

Molitor's 2008 Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese comes from modest holdings on the edge of the Wehlener Klosterberg rather than in the main portion of today's expanded Wurzgarten, but you will seldom smell a more intense exhibition of what I deem site-typical ripe strawberry than here, even though a veil of yeast and a honeyed halo of botrytis also distinguish the nose here. A creamy texture reinforces the honeyed side to this while marked salinity and crustacean-like minerality offer counterpoint and irresistible savor. What's more, this displays amazing delicacy, in fact near weightlessness, and its sweetness is so well-balanced as to go unnoticed. This exceptional value will be even better as its fermentative legacy recedes, and should be worth following for 20 or more years.

Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand: Saint Clair Vicar's Choice Sauvignon Blanc 2009

2010-07-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

Color: Pale straw.

Aroma: A lifted nose showing aromas of gooseberry, grapefruit and passionfruit with refreshing underlying herbal notes.

A delicious wine with crisp fruit flavours of passionfruit, grapefruit and gooseberry. A pleasing mineral note leads to a long lingering finish.

Bright, pale yellow. Sexy aromas of gooseberry, lemon and peppery fresh herbs. Very fresh flavors of lemon ice, kiwi and lime are given a brisk quality by strong acidity. Vibrant, classic Marlborough sauvignon blanc.

Chardonnay from Russian River, California: Rudd Bacigalupi Vineyard Chardonnay 2006

2010-07-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

The Bacigalupi Vineyard is located on benchland along Westside Road within the fog belt of the Russian River Valley. It is from the oldest blocks 1, 3, 5 and 6, which were planted to old Wente clonal selections starting in the mid-1960's. These same vines were the main source of the legendary 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the Paris Tasting in 1976. The vines are low yielding, producing fruit of intensely focused yet elegant flavors.

Exhibits classic fruit with mineral and toast aromas, a rich mid-palate and a long finish, typical characteristics of this old Chardonnay vineyard. This wine also shows more of the floral aromas often seen in old Wente selections. Once harvested, the grapes were gently whole-cluster pressed, and the juice was then gravity-fed to French oak barrels in Rudd's underground caves. Native yeasts were allowed to induce a leisurely primary fermentation. The following summer, native bacteria completed the malolactic fermentation. Weekly stirring of the lees occurred until the secondary fermentation was complete in late summer, and then the wine was stirred monthly for the remainder of time in barrel. After 17 months in barrel, the wine was racked to tank, settled, and minimally fined before being bottled

The bottled 2006 Chardonnay Bacigalupi Vineyard reveals some of the shortcomings this vintage can demonstrate for Russian River Chardonnay... it reveals lovely white currant, citrus oil, and nectarine notes as well as pure, clean fruit that shows no signs of botrytis. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.

Chardonnay from Chile, South America: Maycas del Limari Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Brilliant light yellow in color, Maycas Chardonnay offers great citrus aromas mixed with notes of toasted almond and hazelnut leading to a distinct minerality. Full-bodied, this wine offers great freshness and density. Citrus flavors echo on the palate and end with a crisp and persistent finish.

Enjoy with seafood and poultry dishes. Marries well with salmon, oysters, shrimp, and is excellent with rich sauces.

The 2007 Chardonnay Maycas de Limari exhibits even more aromatic complexity, serious depth, and gobs of ripe, mineral-accented Chardonnay fruit.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Willamette Valley, Oregon: Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris 2008

2010-07-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

Bright, fruity, refreshing style with aromas of pear layered over a light citrus backbone and complemented by honeydew and green apple in the nose. A creamy, round mouthfeel highlights the nicely balanced acidity. Flavors open with fresh green apple, complemented by a bold minerality and notes of tropical fruit, leading into starfruit flavors in the finish with just a hint of sweetness. The small addition of Pinot Blanc, picked very ripe, adds emollient mouthfeel, and contributes to this classic Oregon style. While the Muscat adds flowery sweetness, the barrel fermented portions of the Pinot Gris add a kiss of toast and richness. Drink now - 2010.

The quintessential match with salmon. Wonderful with cheese, shellfish, chicken, salads and white fish. Serve chilled and allow to warm in the glass for optimal enjoyment.

Pineapples and pears fill out this tart, juicy, high-acid effort. Though it does not quite have the flesh of the 2007 it’s a fine food wine, clean, crisp and varietal.

Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, California: Groth Sauvignon Blanc 2009

2010-07-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

Our 2009 Sauvignon Blanc was produced from grapes grown in various microclimates of the Napa Valley. The warmer Napa Valley microclimates give us grapes that result in wines with a lush, full melon/citrus character in the aroma and in the flavor. The cooler Napa Valley fruit provides a solid, crisp backbone that gives the wine an exciting liveliness that balances the rich creaminess from "sur lie" aging.

"Mellow" is a great word for the white grape harvest in 2009. Long, steady periods of moderate temperatures ripened the Sauvignon Blanc grapes in such a way that high sugars were not an issue. The lack of excessive heat and heat spikes allowed us to make wines at more moderate alcohols while still retaining a tremendous amount of fruitiness and acidity. A great year for whites!

Chardonnay from Carneros, California: Cameron Hughes Evergreen Chardonnay 2006

2010-07-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

Those of you who remember Lot 30 will be thrilled with this release. This wine is sourced from two vineyards on the Napa side of Carneros, one of the cooler growing districts of California (due to the fogs coming up from the SF Bay) and one of the best places to grow the chardonnay grape in California. This wine showcases the best of Carneros, bright acidity, tropical fruit, and pretty oak. Our winemaker actually blended five different lots from two producers selling these wines between $24 and $29 to get to the final blend.

Chardonnay from Sonoma County, California: Dan Aykroyd Discovery Series Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

The region's morning fog slows ripening, allowing for the full development of aroma and flavor compounds so that the grapes ripen with higher acidity. The result is a perfect balance of fresh mouthfeel and soft, creamy texture.

The round, full-bodied texture, sweet vanilla notes and increased depth are a result of aging in a mixture of new and neutral French oak barrels. The lovely fruit-forward flavor with essence of pear, Gravenstein apple, and pineapple contrasts with a very floral nose and slight hints of vanilla on the back palate.

Chardonnay from Sonoma County, California: Stonestreet Alexander Valley Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-28T04:52:00.000-07:00

Produced from six to eight superb mountain lots that our winemaker, Graham Weerts chooses every year (from 700 – 1,800 feet), the Alexander Valley Chardonnay is a study in the balancing act between vibrant fruit, opulence and mineral structure. Weight and length are definitely present without compromising crisp acidity and bright fruit, resulting in a Chardonnay that is the poster child for why we farm on the Alexander Mountain Estate.

The 2007 Chardonnay Alexander Mountain Estate exhibits attractive poached pear, honeysuckle, and creme brulee scents, medium to full body, good fruit, a subtle touch of oak, a fleshy texture, and fine freshness and vibrancy from lively acidity. It should drink well for 2-3 years.

Viognier from Central Coast, California: Zaca Mesa Viognier 2009

2010-07-28T04:51:00.000-07:00

On the nose, aromas of honeysuckle and white peach hint at sweetness. However, this wine is dry on the palate with notes of ripe apricot, lemon-lime, melon and lychee. A lingering finish has a touch of minerality, a signature characteristic of our vineyard. A natural pairing would be Thai chicken, raw oysters, ahi tuna or Szechuan prawns.

Pinot Gris/Grigio from Willamette Valley, Oregon: Ponzi Pinot Gris 2009

2010-07-28T04:50:00.000-07:00

A floral nose with lime zest and green apple, the mouth is ripe melon, clove and citrus finishing with a perfect play between sweetness and acidity.

Bright and lively, brimming with grapefruit-scented pear and floral flavors, lingering easily on the slightly sappy finish. Drink now. 14,000 cases made.

Chardonnay from Central Coast, California: Justin Chardonnay 2008

2010-07-28T04:49:00.001-07:00

Aromas of pear, apricot and ripe stone fruit combine with a hint of caramel and toasted oak on the nose of this wine. The entry is bright and crisp with good acid and flavors of white peach, banana, Meyer lemon and hints of mineral and toasted almonds. The wine finishes by coating your mouth with multiple layers of honey, cream, and a touch of spice from the lees stirred French oak.

Best paired with poultry and seafood dishes in light cream sauces such as Dover Sole in white wine cream sauce or Parmesan crusted chicken lobster dishes. Bel Paese, dry Jack, gruyere, Parmigiano Reggiano, pave, pecorino and provolone are a few cheeses that match this wine best.

White Wine from Central Coast, California: Trenza Blanco 2008

2010-07-28T04:47:00.000-07:00

This wine veers from the original Trenza vision of warm and cool climate wines; the Blanco is made entirely of fruit grown in our SIP Certified Sustainable estate Paragon Vineyard in the Edna Valley. It is, however, a blend. Made of Garnacha Blanca (Grenache Blanc) and Albariño, it is a twist on two of the top Iberian white varietals. Its New World approach blends these two traditional varietals, but in Spain they are rarely seen blended together.

Tasting Notes from Winemaker Christian Roguenant:
"I call this my ‘Yin Yang' wine. The Albariño is tight with loads of citrus, and bright acidity, while the Garnacha Blanca is rich, chalky and full-bodied. The finished blend is exotic, with citrus aromatics, particularly tangerine, and a mineral driven wet slate character. It's nicely balanced with nuances from creamy sweet oak in the background."

A wonderfully rewarding wine. It shows the dryness and crisp acidity you want in a savory white, and the fruit flavors, of peaches, grapefruits and green apples, are controlled and subtle. There’s just a touch of oak, which adds softness, and of creamy lees. Brilliant and distinctive. Albariño and Grenache Blanc. Editors’ Choice.

Chardonnay from Central Coast, California: Baileyana Grand Firepeak Cuvee Chardonnay 2007

2010-07-28T04:46:00.000-07:00

This wine is a Baileyana standard, with a flavor profile consistent from one vintage to the next. The 2007 vintage produced beautifully ripe, flavorful berries, allowing me to again make this local favorite. The signature combination of minerality and tropical characteristics really comes through in the glass, and it has a nice, long, clean finish.

This is a dry Chardonnay marked by pronounced acids and steely minerals. The underlying flavors are of exotic pineapples and guavas, while new oak and lees aging add richer notes of buttered toast and sour cream. Drink now.

White Wine from California: Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Summation 2008

2010-07-28T04:44:00.000-07:00

Mingles refreshing flavors of honey dew melon, apricot, pink grapefruit and white pepper. Added hinds of honeysuckle and a creamy mouth feel result in a soft, dry wine that is excellent for food pairing or simply sipping.

Blend includes: 31% Sauvignon Blanc, 18% Chardonnay, 13% Semillon, 11% Viognier, 9% Pinot Blanc, 8% Roussanne, 4% Marsanne, 3% Grenache Blanc, 2% Gewürztraminer, 1% Chenin Blanc.

The new blend from K-J focuses on Rhone varieties (viognier, roussane, marsanne, grenache blanc) and Loire varieties (sauvignon and chenin blanc) along with some chardonnay, semillon and gewurztraminer. The biggest portion comes from Lake County (43 percent), with contributions from a range of coastal regions. Randy Ullom blends it into a credible alternative to chardonnay, the variety that K-J made its name on. This has a rich mouthfeel and honeyed character, here appropriately tied to scents of orange rind, fresh nuts and subdued floral tones. White not acidic, it is structured to match a range of foods, from roast turkey to Thai herb sausage.

Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Estate Kabinett 2008

2010-07-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

Kabinett is the lightest and most delicate style of Riesling in Germany. It is produced from the earliest picking in the best vineyard sites. This estate grown Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett embodies the racy, mineral-driven style of steep, blue slate vineyards in the famous middle Mosel villages of Bernkastel, Graach and Wehlen. Dr. Loosen Rieslings from these villages are some of the most elegant white wines in the world, with fine density and subtle power.

Clean, crisp, distinctive Riesling Kabinett from Ernst Loosen, one of Germany's most celebrated winemakers.

An elegant aperitif wine, this is also an excellent partner for seafood, spicy Asian cuisine and lighter dishes that emphasize fresh ingredients.

A fresh, crisp kabinett, sporting notes of apple and grapefruit, with a hint of orange. This is juicy and balanced, featuring a mineral element that enters on the mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2020. 3,000 cases made.