The 2005 Chardonnay Estate (2,200 cases produced) may be the finest example of this wine I have yet tasted. Along with zesty acidity, smoky hazelnut scents interwoven with notes of orange marmalade, lemon oil, and brioche emerge from this medium to full-bodied, rich, textured, pure effort. It should drink well for 4-6 years. Kudos to Tom Rochioli, one of the wine world’s great guys who, without any fanfare, continues to turn out world-class wines of extraordinary aromatic and flavor dimensions.Previously recommended: 2004 Chardonnay Estate (91), 2004 Chardonnay Rachael’s Vineyard (95), 2003 Chardonnay Rachael’s Vineyard (94), 2004 Chardonnay River Block (95), 2004 Chardonnay South River Vineyard (96), 2004 Pinot Noir East Block (95-97+), 2004 Pinot Noir Estate (91-93), 2004 Pinot Noir Little Hill Vineyard (95-97), 2004 Pinot Noir River Block (94-96), 2004 Pinot Noir West Block (96-98), 2004 Sauvignon Blanc Estate (90).Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358

Apples, acidity and oak are what this is all about. Green apples, that is, baked into pie, and that includes the buttery, cinnamony, sugary pie crust. The acidity is amazing, but that may partly be due to the cool vintage. Classy, sleek Chard, with quite a bit of elegance.——S.H.(4/1/2007)—— 90

Classic RRV Chard, showing bright aromas of green apples, pineapples, lemon and lime and roasted coconut, with rich vanilla cream and smoky butter notes, and that lovely, brisk acidity that makes the finish so clean.——S.H.(7/1/2007)—— 89