2008 Chateau du Chatelard Beaujolais Blanc Vieilles Vignes

Burgundy, France

Chateau du Chatelard Beaujolais Blanc Vieilles Vignes is a delightful discovery for Chardonnay lovers who prefer their wine without the butterscotch! While Beaujolais is best known for its red wines made from the Gamay grape, this old-vines Chardonnay caught the attention of the New York Times tasting panel just before Thanksgiving 2009, earning a 3-star rating. Eric Asimov called it his favorite of all the whites tasted, describing it as "fresh, stony...one I could drink for hours..." We heartily agree and find this white wine gem simply delicious!

Chateau du Chatelard Beaujolais Blanc Vieilles Vignes is 100% Chardonnay with a color of soft amber-gold. On the nose it offers uncomplicated aromas of pure Chardonnay--pear, apple and brioche. Soft and plump with medium-full body and nice balance, it shows flavors of green apples, pears and hazelnuts. This Chardonnay is crisp in the palate with a round, lingering finish.

Enjoy Chateau du Chatelard Beaujolais Blanc Vieilles Vignes over the next 3-4 years with grilled chicken, baked swordfish, steamers, Cobb salad and goat cheese.