Forgeron Cellars 2014 Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $28
Parisian winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla graduated from the University of Djion’s enology program before landing in the United States in 1991, and she forms one of the Pacific Northwest wine industry’s power couples with her equally talented husband, Gilles Nicault. Her background in Burgundy shines with Washington Chardonnay, traditionally pulling grapes from DuBrul Vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills and Sundance Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope. This exemplifies a responsible use of oak. allowing for aromas of Gala apple, starfruit and pineapple that include faint hints of butterscotch and vanilla. That theme continues across the palate, which adds Bosc pear to the mix and finishes with crisp lemony acidity, apple peel and seashells. It’s a wine to use while toasting her U.S. citizenship or serving with Fettuccine Alfredo, scallops in a light cream, oysters and salmon risotto.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,289 cases
Alcohol: 13.8%
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