The beautiful deep golden color has me worried that this might be over the hill, and the sweetness on the nose has me worried this is going to be a typical ripe west coast oak bomb. All of these fears fade away when it hits my mouth. A burst of juicy acidity leads, followed by a medium-bodied refined pear and red apple fruit explosion, ending with a complex toasted almond finish that goes on for ages. The oak is completely in check and integrated into the other flavors, giving a faint butterscotch note. I've been really disappointed with Chardonnay lately, but this one saved the varietal for me. Chateau Ste Michelle is becoming a reliable value producer for me, especially the Indian Wells vineyard, which also makes a great Merlot. An excellent wine, still in its prime, and a steal for $20.
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6/30/2009 - joshwoodward wrote: 92 Points
The beautiful deep golden color has me worried that this might be over the hill, and the sweetness on the nose has me worried this is going to be a typical ripe west coast oak bomb. All of these fears fade away when it hits my mouth. A burst of juicy acidity leads, followed by a medium-bodied refined pear and red apple fruit explosion, ending with a complex toasted almond finish that goes on for ages. The oak is completely in check and integrated into the other flavors, giving a faint butterscotch note. I've been really disappointed with Chardonnay lately, but this one saved the varietal for me. Chateau Ste Michelle is becoming a reliable value producer for me, especially the Indian Wells vineyard, which also makes a great Merlot. An excellent wine, still in its prime, and a steal for $20.
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12/26/2004 - peternelson wrote: 90 Points
Winery: Beaut. white frt/pear/pineapple notes with toasty well showing oak.“freesh pineapple, roasted almonds, lemon zest”
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12/15/2004 - kbob wrote: 90 Points
KHC: Vert clean, crisp and light for a Chardonnay.
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