The seriously endowed, light gold-colored 2000 Chardonnay Mt. Harlan exhibits a reticent but promising nose of poached pears, acacia flowers, and sweet honey. Crisp, with more minerality than the Central Coast Chardonnay in addition to a brioche/leesy component, a good texture, and a fine finish, this medium to full-bodied white should drink well for 3-4 years. Barrel samples of the 2002s were all impressive, but these wines are not yet in the marketplace. Approximate ratings include Selleck (92-94), Jensen (90-94), Reed (90-92), Mills (89-91).Tel. (831) 637-9170

You’ll find lots of acidity and oak in this wine. In between is the fruit, a melange of apples, peaches, pineapples and mangoes. Despite being five years old, it’s still fresh and vital, but you should probably drink it now before it loses its polished youthfulness. ——S.H.(12/15/2005)—— 89