The 2005 Chardonnay was aged for 9 months in French oak, 50% new. It gives off a moderately intense bouquet of mineral, pear, and apple leading to a smoothly textured Chardonnay with additional notes of citrus and peach emerging on the palate. Nicely balanced and straightforward, it should be drunk over the next 1-2 years. The Rutini Winery was founded in 1885 and currently owns vineyard in five different areas of Mendoza. Importer: Pasternak Wine Imports, Harrison, NY; tel. (800) 946-3110

Green apple and lemon work the clean, easygoing nose, while the palate has jump and bounce along with citrus and peach flavors. Don’t look for complexity or nuance and you’ll be happy with the wine’s vibrancy.——M.S.(2/1/2008)—— 85