The Tasting Panel magazine

August 2012

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REVEAL NUMBER SEVEN: BEND IT WITH CLONES {Noble Vines} 446 2010 Chardonnay, Monterey (SRP $12) "Our line of Noble Vines wines pay homage to the best clones from our terroir," says winemaker James Ewart. "Here in California, we've planted a selection of these vines exactly where they will flourish best. Single Vineyard 446 Chardonnay is named for VineType 4 grown in Block 46 of our San Bernabe Vineyard. San Bernabe's cool growing sea- son and diverse soil types add to 446 Chardonnay's brilliant color, juicy tropical and citrus flavors and supple finish." 2010 was Monterey's coolest grow- ing season since 1998, resulting in concentrated color and flavor. Our Panel's comments: "Meyer lemon and Sierra Beauty apple make for a crisp and juicy entry. Just so full of flavor: This style is perfectly lean with a touch of coconut sweetness." —Shelley Lindgren Creamy banana and coconut purée (fun!) with a lemon/lime and green apple crispness lends layers to a creamy texture and full bodied white. Very easy drinking." —Petra Polakovicova REVEAL NUMBER EIGHT: BEND WITH BLENDED LOTS Black Stallion Estate Winery 2010 Chardonnay, Napa Valley (SRP $19) From a boutique Napa Valley winery on the Silverado Trail in the Oak Knoll District, Black Stallion Estate Winery crafts wines from small vineyard lots. This cool-climate 2010 vintage Chardonnay is aged in French oak and goes through malolactic fermentation to create body, concentration and a creamy character. A great value wine. Our Panel's comments: "As ripe and lush as it is, Holly Evans is Director of Public Relations for DFV Wines. it's zippy to the core with a steady line of minerality." —Wilfred Wong "Green apple is center stage but minerality plays a major role, along with great acidity. A subtle, pretty wine with a medium-long finish. I would pair with our Drake's Bay oysters with hajike butter." —Nicole Kosta James Ewart is the winemaker for {Noble Vines} 446 Chardonnay. august 2012 / the tasting panel / 115

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