WS 89pts. - WA 89pts. - Winemaker Notes - Aromatics of slight mineral, apple, pear, smoke and Horse Heaven Hills dust open this elegant yet racy, medium-bodied Chardonnay. A balanced palate of fruit and French oak leads to a seductive, creamy vanilla finish.
According to the Wine Spectator: Ripe and generous, not heavy, but heady with spice-accented pear, honey and floral aromas and flavors, echoing nicely. Drink now.
According to the Wine Advocate: The 2008 Chardonnay Horse Heaven Hills is a bit more serious. Forty percent was barrel-fermented in new oak, 30% in seasoned barrels with the balance in stainless steel. Like the Grand Estates, it was aged for 6-9 months sur lie with weekly batonnage. It gives up aromas of buttered popcorn, pear, spiced apple, and mineral leading to a smooth-textured, ripe Chardonnay with very good volume and concentration. This well-balanced, lengthy effort should drink well for 2-3 years.