The 2009 Chardonnay is quite attractive in its expressive tropical fruit, sweet French oak\and minerals. All of the elements come together nicely in this poised, mid-weight Chardonnay. There is a lovely interplay of minerality and textural creaminess on the generous finish. Hints of melon, pears and vanilla linger on the close. Rusack aged the Chardonnay in 40% new barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. I was very impressed with the Chardonnays and Pinots I tasted from Rusack. The Syrahs appear to be works in progress, but given the level of the best wines here, I see no reason why they can’t be of similar quality. Hopefully that will happen sooner rather than later. Tel. (805) 688-1278; info@rusackvineyards.com

Sweet in pineapple jam and pear flavors and very oaky in caramel and vanilla toast, this Chard is a little heavy handed. It would score higher if it finished drier and crisper. ——S.H.(6/1/2011)—— 85