The 2000 Chardonnay Amphitheater Block exhibits Burgundian-like aromas of roasted hazelnuts, leesy, honeyed citrus, butter, and superb density as well as ripeness. This wine is rich, full-bodied, and obviously made from ripe fruit and low yields given its mid-palate and length. It will drink well for 2-3 years. Tel. (831) 439-8716

Aims for the fences with ripe fruit, and certainly with oak. In fact the barrels dominate, giving peppery, spicy, vanilla notes and that unmistakable oaky flavor. It’s a pretty wine, and a big one, but you wish they’d let the fruit speak for itself. Still, it will impress a lot of people. —S.H.——S.H.(5/1/2002)—— 87