The 1998 Chardonnay Private Reserve is restrained. It displays elegant attractive buttery/tropical fruit, and high quality smoky, toasty oak characteristics. Long, lusty, and rich, this Chardonnay, which is put through 100% malolactic fermentation and aged in 85% new oak casks, should be drunk over the next 2-3 years. (release date 1/00) Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

This stylish, opulent wine is marked by an array of ripe fruits, ranging from citrus through peach, apricot and mango, and is lavishly oaked, with a rich, creamy texture and lots of smoke and toast on the nose.——W.E.(10/1/2000)—— 89