2007 Beaulieu Vineyards Coastal Estates Chardonnay

Couldn't help myself in reviewing another Beaulieu Vineyard product. This one isn't even supposed to be on the same level as the Napa Valley Cab, but scores better. The Coastal Estates brand line supposed to be their entry level wine, but the chardonnay scored okay. Though not impressive, it was true to its varietal and expresses classic
old school California chardonnay: high on the oak, and buttery, o so buttery!


2007 Beaulieu Vineyards Coastal Estates, Chardonnay, Central Coast
Color: Slightly golden straw color.
Nose: Tight nose. What I can smell is very buttery with nectarine notes, apple, orange peel, and vanilla/oak.
Taste: Butter, butter, butter! Low on the fruit and high on the creaminess, butter, and vanilla/oak. Can taste apples, and possibly baked pears. Creamy finish.
Acidity: Low.
Density: Medium+ body.
Finish: Medium+ 15-20 seconds.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Notes: Very, very oaky and creamy. I think its quite appalling to my taste buds. No vibrant fruit at all; it's all muted by the oak/vanilla and malolactic creaminess. I personally hate this type
of chardonnay, but it does pair well with crab or lobster with gobs of butter. Only good thing I can say is that its smooth.
Rating: 85 $11.00