91 2005 Ojai Bien Nacido Vnyd (Santa Maria Valley) Chardonnay 9/26/09 ($26)
14.0% alc
Color: Pretty medium gold. (3.0) Bouquet: Very ripe, flowery pollen/honey, litchi nut, apricot and pear. Oak plays a complementary role. Also, a slight, yet interesting Madeira component and a hint of botrytus. (3.0) Body: Light heavyweight that coats the mouth very nicely. Excellent acidity and fruit with just enough oak. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but more explosive and giving. Very aromatic; you are smelling and tasting it simultaneously. Intense. (3.5) Finish: Tart acidity keeps it lively, but it loses some distinction here. Cedar and ripe fruit lingering. (3.0)
Overall: For as ripe as it is, it also has excellent tart acidity to keep everything in balance. The flowers, honey and litchi nut are compelling, particularly when combined with just the right amount of cedary oak. Interesting stuff, particularly for the price, and has room to improve in the next 2-4 years. (15.5)
Copyright © 2006 - 2009, Paul DeRose , WineOutpost.com