In my 2017 Pinot Noir review I mentioned that Dave Sheppard is back, and he hasn’t lost a stride from his Coyote’s Run days – I’d even say he’s picked up a few new tricks here at Flat Rock, and that’s good news for Burgundy-grape fans in this province. This Chardonnay picks up where Dave left off with barrel fermentation, some wild yeast incorporation and no time at all in stainless steel (so all the wine is barrel treated in one form or another) – the acidity rocks, the fruit sings and everything is in harmony: peach, apple and lemon zest plus the addition of some floral elements to pretty things up. So glad to see Dave back at the helm of winemaking – and for Flat Rock this is an amazing coup. Price: $19.95 – Rating: ****+