The 2010 Chardonnay Director’s Cut is an accessible, fruity Chardonnay laced with lemon, apricots, flowers and spices. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. These two entry-level offerings from Francis Ford Coppola are varietally expressive and offer plenty of value.Tel. (707) 251-3227

Rich and sweet in pineapples, limes, kiwi fruit, honey and caramelized oak, but bracing acidity and a firm minerality prevent it from being a mere fruit bomb. Drink now. ——S.H.(9/1/2011)—— 87

A very interesting Chardonnay, and easily worth the price. It was fermented in 50% new French oak, which gives it a creamy, smoky richness, while the underlying fruit flavors are ripe and rewarding, suggesting pineapples, Asian pears, green apples and Meyer lemons. A beautiful, complex and balanced wine.——S.H.(8/1/2010)—— 91

Tasted at The Sampler in Islington. This Russian River Valley Chardonnay has a rather simple, non-descript nose. The palate is oaky on the entry, settles down more towards the apple, grapefruit and pineapple. A little bland on the finish. Tasted June 2009.