The 1998 Chardonnay River Block Vineyard (225 cases), which emerges from a vineyard planted in sandy, loamy soils, saw 100% new French oak. The wine is full-bodied, with a pronounced mineral, lemon butter, and toasty-scented nose, and tightly-knit, gravel-like flavors offering tropical fruit, leesy Burgundian notions, and a hint of roasted almonds. Deep, full-bodied and impressively-endowed, it will age well for 4-5 years. The best chance of obtaining any of these wines is to get on the winery’s mailing list, or at least on the waiting list to get on the mailing list. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358.