#thewinestore

It’s not a surprise that when our favorite local tasting spot – The Wine Store - announced a Chardonnay tasting that the four of us simultaneously chimed ‘We’re in’.  So imagine the excitement I had when we arrived and Rombauer was on the list!  Mark couldn’t make it to the first tasting, so we double blind tasted on two occasions - here’s our breakdown of the six chards that ranged in taste, price, and geography.

L’Ecole 41 2012 - $18.99 retail

This was the highest alcohol content (14.5%) and surprisingly smooth.  With a somewhat dry finish, this French barreled gem only had 5K cases produced.  As the third oldest vineyard in Walla Walla, one of their claims to fame is that they are certified sustainable.  We felt this drinks most like Rombauer of the selection.

Stoller Family Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2010 - $29.99 retail

Overpriced but a great nose hit with apples, oak and vanilla on the palate.  Would be a best buy at $15-$18 retail.  The 10.5 months in French oak helps the more buttery texture.

Iron Horse Chardonnay 2011 - $11.99 retail

With 90 points from Wine Enthusiast, it’s surprising that this unoaked chard makes our list.  It’s a great ‘second bottle’ for a weekday night. Sonoma is not where we usually hang in Northern CA wine country, but this one enticed us enough to consider planning a trip in the next year.  

Rombauer Vineyards Chardonnay Carneros 2012 - $31.99 retail