Where 2007 was an abnormal year for whites, 2008 was a pretty typical year for whites, and Chardonnay, in particular, benefited from the growing conditions. This is, for lack of a better term, Hidden Bench's base model Chardonnay; at $32 it doesn't seem so "base" but this is where you start if you want small lot, small quantity wines. Barrel fermented for 10 months in 100% French oak, this wine shows all kinds of signs of being age-worthy for the next 5+ years. Lots of juicy pear, apple with a restrained oak flavour and smell, meaning there's some butteryness but not overpoweringly so. Lovely wine with good balance fruit-to-acidity and finish. Price: $32.00 - Rating: **** 1/2