30% of the 2011 Chardonnay was barrel fermented in new French oak and it was aged in oak for 3 months with batonnage daily post primary fermentation. It offers aromas of ripe golden delicious apples, melons and warm peaches with a toasty / yeasty undercurrent and a whiff of almonds. Medium bodied with good concentration and some silkiness to the texture, it has racy acid and a long finish. Drink it now to 2015. Importer: Winebow; www.winebow.com

Kangarilla Road’s 2008 Chardonnay was 30% barrel-fermented in new French oak where it remained for several months with frequent lees stirring. The aromatics display baking spices, white peach, and tropical notes followed by a relatively light-bodied, elegant style of Chardonnay with a creamy texture and well-integrated oak. Drink this excellent value over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Click Wine Group, Seattle, WA; tel. (800) 859-0689