Made in the modern California style, new oak dominates this Chardonnay. Even though unused French barrels accounts for only 30% of the blend, the aromas and flavors of buttered toast, vanilla and caramel swamp what otherwise seems like a good, crisp, tropically fruited wine. Earns an extra point for fine minerality, the result of its pedigreed vineyard originis. ——S.H.(11/1/2011)—— 87

Rich but over-worked, with a heavy application of oak, giving dominating aromas and flavors of caramel, buttered toast and vanilla. Underneath is a crisp Chardonnay with pineapple, Asian pear and green apple fruit. Drink now.——S.H.(7/1/2011)—— 87

Very rich, very ripe, showing the enormity of the vintage. With a coat of smoky oak, the wine erupts with fresh fruit flavors of pineapples, apricots, green apples, pears and spices, brightened with crisp, citrusy acidity. Delicious now, and should develop well for at least six years.——S.H.(11/1/2009)—— 93