The 2008 Chardonnay Cold Creek Vineyard was aged sur lie in 63% new French oak for 10 months. Medium gold-colored, it exhibits a toasty, spicy, pear and mineral accented perfume. On the palate it has plenty of savory fruit but lacks the concentration of the Canoe Ridge cuvee. All three of these Chardonnays will provide pleasure over the next 3-4 years. Chateau Ste. Michelle continues to produce large quantities of quality wine at exceptionally fair prices. www.ste-michelle.com

Powerful scents of toast and buttered popcorn dominate the nose, but once in the mouth the wine shows some grip and depth. For those who love the buttery style of Chardonnay, this will be hard to beat at this price. Traces of apple and pear fruit show in the midpalate, and the wine lingers gracefully into a full-bodied finish.——P.G.(5/1/2011)—— 89