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Woodward Canyon Winery 2013 Chardonnay, Washington, $44
At one point, founding winemaker Rick Small built his Chardonnay along the lines of a California reserve style, but that barrel influence has been scaled back by Kevin Mott in order to highlight the fruit — Celilo Vineyard in the Columgia Gorge and off the Woodward Canyon Estate — and broaden the food applications. While buttery and vanilla notes from the Burgundy barrels are ever-present, the program is just 20% new oak, allowing for aromas of dried pineapple and mango. The entry is plush with sweet pear and apple flavors on the midpalate, and ample acidity makes for a delicious farewell. This earned a gold medal at the 2014 Walla Walla Valley Wine Competition, and production was scaled back by more than 200 cases from the prior vintage, so shop accordingly.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 650 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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