The 2008 Chardonnay was barrel-fermented in 34% new French oak with 50% of the wine going through malolactic. Scents of lightly buttered popcorn, pear, and spiced apple lead to a savory, spicy Chardonnay that can be enjoyed over the next 3 years. It is a good value. Tel. (509) 526-9463; www.threeriverswinery.com

Very soft, it feels like the vinous equivalent of a creampuff. The fruit is lightly tropical, with notes of caramel and banana, cut through with a streak of citrus and apple.——P.G.(10/1/2010)—— 87