Pennywise Chardonnay – Fantastic

Anyone who’s been a reader here for long knows that I’m not a huge chardonnay fan. As a result, I’m probably unfairly harsh when evaluating a chardonnay. And so, when I find one that I like I have to give it respect. This is one of those cases.

This one is produced by The Other Guys and I don’t have a much of a story behind it. The grapes only have the designation of “California” meaning that they are not exclusively from one named appellation. And while it’s mostly chardonnay it does have 14% French colombard. The blend and origin of the grapes is different for this 2013 than what they put into the 2012 chardonnay, which means the vintage is distinct from the previous  vintage — and who knows what they’ll do when they get to the 2014 vintage.

Honeysuckle, lemon, straw and nectarine aromas give this wine a complex, balanced and enjoyable nose. The palate is crisp, creamy and refreshing, offering lemon and granny smith apple flavors. The finish is long and delicious. This is a fantastic chardonnay for the price.

Wine: Pennywise
Varieties: 86% chardonnay, 14% French colombard
Vintage: 2013
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: 88
Average price: $12.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.

Find Pennywise Chardonnay with Snooth