You just can’t deny good Chardonnay – it’s so easy to dismiss those over-oaked, fat versions, or those wimpy weak versions, but a good one can really get things hopping in the mouth. Aromas lean more barrel than fruit: buttery, vanilla, caramel but then in swings grilled peach … wow. Palate has the same effect with butter and vanilla taking center stage then peach and pear skin wrap themselves around the tongue and hold on until the nice spicy finish kicks in along with good acidity and great length. Price: $28.75 – Rating: ****