There are nearly 250 cases of the 1997 Chardonnay Gauer Ranch Upper Barn. This wine offers a compelling waxy, honeyed citrus, subtle toasty, lusty nose, followed by a full-bodied, fabulously concentrated mouthful of leesy, multi-layered Chardonnay exhibiting honeyed grapefruit, citrus, and mineral flavors. A powerful, multi-dimensional, long (nearly a minute) finish adds to this Chardonnay's prodigious characteristics. It should drink well for 7-8 years. (release date 3/00)
This wine is available through the winery's mailing list, although some preferred Napa Valley restaurants, particularly the French Laundry, and in New York (Daniel and La Bernadin), seem to receive noteworthy allocations. Tel. (707) 258-3608; Fax (707) 942-5633