A nice Chardonnay to drink now, with rich tropical fruit, apple and pear flavors, enhanced with vanilla and smoky oak. One of the more successful Silverado Chardonnays of recent years. ——S.H.(12/31/2011)—— 87

Chardonnay has not been Silverado’s strong suit in recent years and the tight, lean 2008 does not alter that conclusion. The wine is dry and acidic, with citrus and apple flavors that lack charm.——S.H.(12/22/2011)—— 84

The 2007 Chardonnay has copious lime and lemon oil as well as some orange blossom and honeysuckle notes. The wine has a greenish hue to its color, and shows little evidence of any noticeable oak other than some subtle spice. It has zesty acidity, medium to full body, and a long, pure finish. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. This is a strong group of wines from Silverado, and certainly a great deal of credit must go to winemaker Jonathan Emmerich.Tel. (707) 257-1770