White

Barrel Fermented Chardonnay

St. Helena · Napa · United States

Fact sheet

Grilled fish · Roast chicken · Shrimp · Cream-based dishes · Aged cheeses

2019
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013

There's no bones about the use of oak in this wine, which spent nine months enjoying the cradling effects of a good barrel, the majority French and 25% American. Ample fragrances of lemon and lime infuse the well-balanced wine that is also marked by crisp minerality, cinnamon to…
2012

Made in the rich, buttery style, this decadent Chardonnay oozes honey, butterscotch, tropical fruit, vanilla and toast flavors. It also has a much-needed minerality that adds depth and firmness. The grapes come from Carneros, Oakville and St. Helena. Drink through 2016.
2011

This wine shows the hand of the winemaker in the buttered toast, vanilla, crème brulée, honey and creamy lees that dominate the palate. The underlying fruit is a little thin, suggesting tangerines and papayas. The price-quality ratio is fair.
2010

This bottling has been variable over the decades, but this 2010 shows fine form, a good sign coming on the heels of the excellent 2009. It's richly oaked and flashy in pineapple jam, buttered toast and creamy, yeasty flavors.
2009