Wild fermented in French oak barriques, 50% new, and aged in barrel for 10 months, the 2008 Casarina Reserve Chardonnay gives intensely toasty / cedary notes over ripe stone fruit and guava notes with hints of green mango, pineapple and cashews. Medium bodied, lively acidity lifts the ripe tropical and stone fruit flavors with a suggestion of creaminess to the texture and a long finish. Drink this one now to 2016+. Importer: Foley Family Wines, Healdsburg, CA

More restrained on the nose than the regular Chardonnay, but with greater depth, richness and texture, the 2005 Casarina Reserve Chardonnay is a selection of older vines, mainly the Mendoza clone. Subtle popcorn and cereal-grain notes add elegance to the melon fruit, finishing with crisp acids that balance the wine’s weight. ——W.E.(12/15/2006)—— 91