An authoritative, distinguished Chard, from a producer with a good track record at this bottling. It’s ripe and immediately appealing, in the California style, but despite 100% new oak, it doesn’t taste oaky, and the citrus and tropical fruit flavors are balanced and complexed with wild herb and mineral notes. Should gain in interest over the next six years. ——S.H.(12/15/2008)—— 92

Franciscan helped pioneer the use of wild or indigenous yeasts years ago, hence the name, and whether that technique makes better wines is debatable. Still, the level of Cuvee Sauvage has been generally high. The ’05 reflects the cool balance of the vintage, with ripe peach, pear, mango and oaky-butterscotch flavors accompanied by crisp balancing acidity.——S.H.(12/1/2007)—— 89