Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/76623
REVEAL NUMBER THREE: HIGH-ELEVATION BEND Antica Napa Valley 2010 Estate Chardonnay, Antinori Family Estate (SRP $35) Antica represents the venerable Antinori family in California, located in a high-elevation valley in the eastern mountains of Napa Valley, at the top of the Atlas Peak AVA. The hilly terrain and rocky soils of the estate comprise the formula that Piero Antinori thought ideal for grape-growing. The Chardonnay is grown on 10- to 22-year-old vines at 1,400 feet on alluvial Bale Clay Loam and Perkins Gravelly Loam soils. Five clones from nine vineyard selections, each with their own identifiable qualities, go into making Antica Chardonnay. The Panel's comments: "Dust and earth start the mineral process on the palate, while an onset of creamy oak and stone fruit join the parade. There's a lot going on in this firm, structured Chardonnay." —Wilfred Wong "Voluptuous California signature from obviously expressive terroir; full and elegant brioche and red apple slant with good acidity, start to finish." —Nicole Kosta REVEAL NUMBER FOUR: BEND IT . . . DELICATELY Chiarina 2010 Chardonnay, California (SRP $15) This small-production Chardonnay is sourced from vineyards across California's top cool-climate growing regions, with an empha- sis on Sonoma County. Straightforward and bright, the fine acidity and delicate nature of this pretty white lends itself to be a great food pairing wine. Kristy Fisher is the Customer Representative for C&C Distributors. The Panel's comments: "Light and ethereal on the nose and a tropical shininess on the palate. Beautiful mango to pineapple and banana notes with a singing minerality on the finish." —Meridith May "Alluring mid-gold color, the lemon zest and acacia flowers meld with a crushed white rock minerality. Great creamy texture. This would be great on Epic's patio on a Sunday afternoon." —Petra Polakovicova august 2012 / the tasting panel / 113 Jennifer Scott DWS, Luxury Business Development Manager, California, at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.