Massive, as are all of Talbott’s 2005 Chardonnays. The Cuvee Carlotta brings together powerful, smoky new oak with extraordinarily ripe fruit to make for a wine of fantastic opulence and decadence. The flavors are endless, a cascade of pineapple jam, apricot creme brulee, butterscotch, cinnamon toast, vanilla cream and cotton candy flavors. As sweet as that sounds, the finish is thoroughly dry and very long. ——S.H.(2/1/2009)—— 95

This is a barrel selection from the winery’s Sleepy Hollow Vineyard and is one of the most concentrated Chardonnays in California. Has the honeyed richness of a botrytized wine, but is absolutely dry. Tastes like an apricot and pineapple tart, with seasonings of nutmeg, cinnamon, and the smoky, nutty pie crust. Very few California Chardonnays need time, but this one does. Stash until late 2008, but this powerhouse should gradually peak over a decade.——S.H.(4/1/2008)—— 94