Dusted Valley Vintners 2012 Evergreen Vineyard Chardonnay, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $29

Wisconsin natives Corey Braunel and Chad Johnson arrived in the Walla Walla Valley to make wine, and they soon developed a working relationship with the Milbrandt brothers, whose growing empire includes the Wahluke Wine Co., and renowned Evergreen Vineyard in the newly established Ancient Lakes appellation. Here’s a terrifically balanced Chardonnay that features oaky notes with flashy acidity and abundant fruit, starting with aromas of buttered toast, pear yogurt, pineapple candy and dried mango. Rich tropical flavors are met in the midpalate with butterscotch and finished with brioche, while bright acidity pushes from beginning to end.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 144 cases

Alcohol: 14.1%

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