When handled properly hot vintage Chardonnays, grown in a cool climate region, get something that a hot vintage Chardonnay in a hot climate region doesn’t get … wonderful balancing acidity, which can help carry that rich round ripe fruit without weighing down the palate. Twelve months in all French oak (30% new) delivers butterscotch, vanilla and peach cobbler on the nose with a plethora of white fruit, vanilla and spice on the palate. But it’s the acidity that helps everyone play well together plus the long, almost creamy, finish. It’s quite the decadent Chardonnay. Price: $31.95 – Rating: ****+