Smoking Loon Chardonnay 2008

Creamy, bright aromas of vanilla bean poached pear and fresh brioche bread waft out of the glass, with a slight hint of nutmeg in the background. Full of flavor on the palate, Meyer lemon, caramel apple, and smoky vanilla oak are all tightly intertwined. The four unique California appellations in this blend contribute balanced citrus acidity, fruit avor, and oak nuance to this Chardonnay. A touch of tangerine peel shows on the mid-palate, while lemon meringue lingers in the complex finish. Medium-bodied overall, 75% of this wine went through malolactic fermentation before aging for 9 months on the lees of the grapes for added depth and roundness.

The mellow acidity and balance of toast and citrus in this Chardonnay make it a great wine to stand alone or pair nicely with food. A chicken sandwich with grilled pineapple would complement this wine well, as would a Caesar salad with grilled shrimp. For people who appreciate wine without the pretense, Smoking Loon is the full-bodied California varietal wine that celebrates independent character and a Bohemian personality by going beyond a single plot of land or a château, to explore the best vineyards in each vintage through our négociant relationships.