The 2006 Chardonnay, matured in French oak for 18 months using a small proportion of new oak, delivers a neutral, mineral-rich nose with hints of dried pineapple and pine needles, leading on to a beautifully balanced palate surfeit with tension and poise; a subtle sense of natural balance and sophistication. A compelling Chardonnay, I would not be surprised to see this evolve over 10-12 years. Since debuting with the 2002 vintage, ex-Cloudy Bay winemakers James Healy and Ivan Sutherland have been fashioning some of Marlborough’s finest wines under their label Dog Point and their 2006s were nothing less than exceptional.Importer: Ex Cellars Wine Agencies, Solvang, CA; tel. (805) 686-9153.