I was blown away by the 1,480-case cuvee of 2002 Chardonnay La Carriere. This French-styled offering is made from a vineyard planted in soils filled with white volcanic ash, and is aged completely in Louis Latour barrels. It possesses an exquisite liquid minerality as well as gorgeous aromas of citrus oils intermixed with such exotic tropical fruits as guava and passion fruit. Full-bodied, with dazzling palate penetration, fine balance, and an extraordinary, layered, multidimensional feel, this is one of the single greatest Chardonnays I have recently tasted. It is a brilliant blend of French finesse with California power that should drink well for 5-7 years, possibly longer. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209

I was blown away by the 1,480-case cuvee of 2002 Chardonnay La Carriere. This French-styled offering is made from a vineyard planted in soils filled with white volcanic ash, and is aged completely in Louis Latour barrels. It possesses an exquisite liquid minerality as well as gorgeous aromas of citrus oils intermixed with such exotic tropical fruits as guava and passion fruit. Full-bodied, with dazzling palate penetration, fine balance, and an extraordinary, layered, multidimensional feel, this is one of the single greatest Chardonnays I have recently tasted. It is a brilliant blend of French finesse with California power that should drink well for 5-7 years, possibly longer. (Not yet released)Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209