The limited production 2005 Chardonnay Damaris Reserve emerges from the Sangiacomo Vineyard in Carneros. More intense honeysuckle marmalade and tropical fruit characteristics are found in this wine’s aromatics. Full and rich, with more smoky, Meursault-like nuttiness as well as attractive fullness are found in this beautiful Chardonnay. It should drink well for 2-3 years. Kudos to winemaker Eric Stern and proprietors Mike and Mary Calhoun for these reasonably priced, high quality white wines Tel. (707) 833-0212; Fax (707) 833-1164

New oak seems to dominate this Chard, swamping the actual flavor of the wine. The grapes provide lovely apricots and pineapples, balanced with fine acidity, but the oak swamps with smoke and vanilla and sappy wood cream.——S.H.(4/1/2008)—— 84