Pale lemon gold in color, the 2007 Chardonnay Lolita Ranch possesses a very evocative nose of warm peaches, apple pie and dried pineapple with touches of candied ginger, jasmine and beeswax. Rich, full-bodied and packed with preserved stone fruits and savory layers, it has a fabulous uplifting backbone and great length. Aging very gracefully!

The tropical fruit, honeysuckle, smoked hazelnut, and caramelized citrus-scented and flavored 2007 Chardonnay Lolita Ranch (only 350 cases produced) should be drunk over the next 6-8 years. A limited number of wines were presented to me for tasting at Martinelli. Sadly, Helen Turley and John Wetlaufer have departed as consultants to concentrate on their own vineyard. Nevertheless, Martinelli should be in good hands.Tel. (707) 525-0570; Fax (707) 525-9463