With Hart, Jess, Eric, Tiara and Bradian at J&E’s housewarming!

This is a big boy Napa Chardonnay! A little treat!

In the glass: a rich slightly pale gold, clear.

On the nose: I. Am. Pleased. The first thing I worry about trying Cali Chards, are the mega ripe fruit bombs that are oaked to the tits. But this, oh no. This is very well balanced and finessed. Fresh off the bottle, this was shy. But as the wine breathed, a touch of flintiness, citrus, mild sweet oak, stone fruit. Eventually, a very delicate white flower emerged with strong inhale. Super super pretty. This was just wonderfully balanced.

On the palate: mid+ alcohol, intense fruits, mid+ acidity with a juicy long finish. This was so close to be incredible, except this oddly persistent and strong pulse of bitterness. Not entirely sure why, but that was the one thing that threw me off here.

Delicious minerality on the exhale.

Today has been nice. 2 new world wines with just such good balance and reasonable alcohol