2006
Estate Chardonnay
Bouchaine Vineyards
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Chardonnay (White)
Napa Valley
$28.50/bottle
It is a true expression of Chardonnay—bright, citrusy flavors graced with only the merest hint of oak. Its fruit flavors, bright acidity, notable texture (a hallmark characteristic of Napa Valley Carneros Chardonnay), and relentless finish harmonize in an elegant, stylish wine.
Vintage Notes
The wine is a blend of the following Chardonnay clones: UCD 4 which provides structure, acidity, and citrus flavors; Dijon 76 and 96 which add essential oils and flavor complexity; and a heritage Muscat clone to introduce floral and perfumed aromatics. fermentation consisted of 85% in oak barrels and 15% in stainless steel. Its lower alcohol and lively crispness comes from the judicious use of new barrels (30%).
Ratings & Reviews
Werd!
On the smell action sensation I'm picking up a mixture of grapefruit, sour apple and a pinch of hazelnuts. The taste rolls in with a buttered popcorn taste with a hint of yeast in addition to the sweet breakfast fruit melange.
Fruit dressed up fancy
This wine definitely does not fit the mold of a traditional California Chardonnay. There is perfume and incense on the nose, with just a touch of citrus fruit. The flavors are over-ripe apples with a touch of salty yeast, a far cry from the butter and oak of tradition. The finish is lacking, a there… (view more)
Off to the Races
I have never actually been to the track, but for some reason this wine takes me there. Picture this: bright and sunny, with the scent of goat cheese, ripe green apples, and horses. On the palate it starts off tart - like the skin of a granny smith apple and turns into this nutty yeasty flavor on… (view more)