This is some funky Chardonnay – but funky in a good way. The label says ‘barrel aged’ but it’s so much more than that, according to winemaker Marc Bradshaw. Some was barrel fermented; some barrel aged and some just had “barrel treatment” in various forms. The result is a wine that delivers far beyond its price point. Mineral, peach and spice fight against vanilla-cream and brazen acidity. Between the nose and the palate this wine seems to take on a life of its own. Price: $12.95 – Rating: ****