The 2009 Canoe Ridge Estate Chardonnay was partially native yeast-fermented followed by 9 months sur lie in 31% new French oak. It offers up toasty pear and spiced apple aromas leading to a round, concentrated, spicy Chardonnay whose oak is well integrated. Drink this excellent value over the next 3-4 years. Chateau Ste. Michelle's portfolio remains strong.www.ste-michelle.com

Also recommended, but no tasting note given. Tel. (425) 488-1133

This falls right in the toasty, oaky style of almost all the Chardonnays from winemaker Bob Bertheau, wrapping bright apple and citrus fruit in layers of toasty, nutty, buttery oak. A reasonable expectation is that additional bottle age will smooth it out and push the fruit more forward.——P.G.(4/1/2012)—— 88