The 2006 Terre di Franciacorta Chardonnay is very pretty in this vintage. Ripe varietal fruit is intermingled with sweet scents of French oak and minerals as this focused Chardonnay opens up in the glass. The 2006 is a somewhat understated version of this wine, but the balance and overall harmony are impressive. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900

The barrel-aged 2004 Chardonnay Terre di Franciacorta presents ripe tropical fruit, minerals, spices, smoke and toasted oak. Medium in body, it comes across as somewhat restrained for this style of wine. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2010. Ca’ del Bosco is one of Franciacorta’s most important estates. Proprietor Maurizio Zanella makes a wide range of sleek, internationally styled wines. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900

There's a lot of character in this full-bodied, smooth and subtly flavored Chardonnay. It's restrained but satisfying as the citrus, vanilla and honey flavors mingle on the finish. Should improve through 2000. 1,000 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Terre di Franciacorta Select to Add