Each year, this historic site produces some of Washington state’s finest Chardonnay, and this vintage represents the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Cold Creek Vineyard, across the Columbia River from the Wahluke Slope. Bob Bertheau and his white wine team, now led by David Rosenthal, work only with French oak barrels on this program, and nearly half of those barrels are fresh out of the wrapper. There’s plenty of fleshy stone fruit aromas of white peach, dusty lemon and dried apricot, while vanilla cream and the toastiness of the oak slowly emerges as the wine warms in the glass. It’s a big, delicious yet balanced Chardonnay on the palate, which offers flavors of Gala apple, pear and butterscotch as the nine months of sur lie aging creates the rich mouth feel. And yet, there’s a stream of lemony acidity that carries through the finish. Suggested pairings include salmon, veal and seafood risotto as well as other dishes that highlight ingredients such as ginger, orange zest and tarragon.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 2,500 cases
Alcohol: 13.3%
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