The big wine mags scored this gem in the high eighties and if I cared about such things, this wine would definitely cross that magic 90 point finish line. True to form, it's got a water-like color with just a touch of golden rim. The typical grapefruit notes are apparent on the nose but I also detected a nice touch of barnyard, french vanilla ice cream, and orange blossom. The red grapefruit also rocks the palate along with sour apple and cucumber. It lacks the grassiness of a New Zealand Sauvignon but has a lot more ripe fruit compared to anything from France. A touch of oak adds complexity and body without taking away from the fresh varietal character. I don't think anyone would mistake this for a Chardonnay but I do think people might mistake it for a far more expensive wine. Coming in at the mid-teens, this wine has a nice balance and surprising structure for the price-point.
P.S For all my Portland peeps . . . if you find yourself among all the great little tasting rooms in Woodinville, I think Chateau Ste. Michelle is one of the few larger commercial wineries that is worth a visit. Wild peacocks wander the property and they have a huge line up of single vineyard and higher end wines to taste.
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