Stoney Ridge continues to churn out excellent white wines from their 2009 ‘Excellence’ line. First up was the Pinot Gris (91pts), then the Sauvignon Blanc (90 pts), and now, this oaked Chardonnay. Full bodied, it serves up tropical fruit, cream, vanilla, hazelnut, spice and green apple. Rounding everything out is the refreshing acidity and great length. Drink over the next four years. Pair with a butternut squash risotto topped with butter-poached lobster.
This tasty Chardonnay doffs its cap at Burgundy. Straw coloured with a minerally bouquet of sweet lemons and toasty oak, it opens on the palate with mouth-filling apple and white peach flavours. Very good length.
Le Grand Clos is Jordanne’s top Chardonnay, with a price tag to match. Medium to full bodied, there is super balance: the extract/concentration, oak, acid and alcohol mesh together beautifully. Its flavour is succulent, with ripe apple fruit, lemon, toast, vanilla, slight tropical notes and a beguiling backbone of minerals. The persistency is gratifying. It puts many a great Burgundy to shame.
Here is a delightful Icewine that possesses incredible sweetness as well as incredible acidity. Honey, golden raisins, pineapples in syrup and lime cordial flatter the senses. The long finish is so gratifying.
The Merlot (75%) lends fragrant aromatics and lush fruitiness, while the Cab Sauv (25%) contributes intense blackcurrant and firm tannins. Tame its oaky spicy-smokiness with grilled meats.
Toasty spicy aromas lift from the nose. Gobs of black fruit flavours gush on the rich mid-palate. Smoky notes pop up from start to finish. Slightly astringent on the back end, while the oaky finish lingers. Suited for well-marinated beef dishes.
The 2/3rds Cab Franc leads with a fragrant nose of floral and raspberry. It also bestows spicy tobacco and red berry flavours, while lengthening the finish. The 1/3rd Cab Sauv is less noticeable, but adds structure, while the oak influence brings out cocoa notes. Solid choice for a by-the-glass red with burger fare.