Those who love their Chardonnay big and in your face will enjoy this ballsy version of the grape. From the toasted nuts and vanilla that gets right up your nose and stays there to the vanilla, burnt butter, toasted apple, caramel, almonds and over the top wood notes that seem to be the hallmark of winemaker Deborah Paskus' work ... this one mellows out nicely on the finish so that the linger isn't as rough and tumble as the entrance - sure it bullies its way through the mouth, but it ends with a softening mellowness that's unexpected, but very welcome. Price: $39.95 - Rating: **** +