Who doesn’t love a nice Chardonnay??? In this case I am talking about a French White Brugundy, a group which is very close to my heart. White Burgundies have had very good vintages for the past five years, so no one should be afraid of purchasing one (unlike the reds of the past five vintages that have exhibited great variation). Below is a good value chardonnay that should be considered if you are seeking an ‘old world’ chardonnay.
The Joseph Droughin Saint Veran (located in southern Burgundy) 2008 has a lovely, big fruity floral nose initially, which then subsides to ‘normal’ levels after a few minutes in the glass. Flavors are light and fruity with typical apple and pear with this un-oaked 100% Chardonnay, but there is a backbone of serious minerality from mid-palate through the finish. The mineral notes nearly overpower the fruit, but a few minutes after opening the mineral notes relax and the wine regains balance. Trademark late-palate acidity marks this wine as representative of the breed, as white burgundies are known to have nicely integrated acidity at the finish. In Pennsylvania this wine is currently on sale for only $11.99, which represents a fine value for a White Burgundy that in this case would typically cost $18. I imagine at this price that people will discover the wine and then purchase very quickly.
Jack Brice Wine 