By Zoltan Szabo
2009 Reif Estate Chardonnay Reserve, Niagara River VQA, Niagara Peninsula
Grapes come from a two acre vineyard block planted back in 1981. Full malolactic fermentation and additional 18 months of aging in French barriques resulting a wine with 14K gold colour, with aromas of poached pear, buttered popcorn, savoury honey and vanilla. Full and oily over the palate with lemon emulsion, bee’s was and mineral nuances, yet the finish is fresh, clean and dry. A bold Chardonnay here, I tried it along with whole – roasted lemon – herb – paprika chicken and Caesar salad with my own home – made dressing (yes, raw egg and lots of fresh garlic, anchovies and whatnot…) with black pepper – basil croutons and, well, you got it, it was just delicious. Just released and available from the winery for the more than reasonable price tag of $19.95. reifwinery.com
All scores are out of five apples.
Read more of sommelier Zoltan Szabo at zoltanszabo.org and follow him at twitter.com/zoltanszabo.
