It's not often that something interesting gets done to Chardonnay, and I do mean interesting. This is an experimental wine from Richard Karlo that sees him put the wine in a mixed CHOA barrel (which is grown entirely in Prince Edward County), for 3 months. Big deal right? Chardonnay in wood for three months ... but what is this CHOA? It's a barrel made form Cherry, Hickory, Oak and Ash ... now that is truly interesting. The nose is toasty with vanilla, baked pear and crème brule notes; the palate offers up a vanilla toastiness with lovely white fruits, that develop as the wine sits in the glass, with a clean and tasty crème brule finish ... nice job on this one, Chardonnay with a new spin. Price: $25.00 - Rating: *** 1/2+