The 1996 Chardonnay Cuvee Allier is reminiscent of a tropical fruit-scented and flavored California Chardonnay, with an overlay of toasty oak. Fresh, ripe tangerines and ripe apples combine in this medium-bodied wine that also reveals well-integrated, spicy wood. This generously complex, fleshy Chardonnay possesses enough supporting acidity to give it delineation. Interestingly, this wine, from a selection of the best barrels of Allier, was qualitatively equivalent to the less expensive Barrel Fermented Chardonnay, which was aged in 40% Allier and 60% American oak. It should drink well for 12-18 months. It is an excellent value.Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (617) 461-5767