Novelty Hill Chardonnay Stillwater Creek 08

This Chardonnay "rewards drinkers with some classic Chardonnay attributes, aromas of nutty butterscotch, toast, dried apricots, some mineral, citrus and apples. Those descriptions continue on the palate with nice apples wrapped in new French oak. The softness of sur lie aging is cast alongside bright acidity that made us think of entrees such as trout, red snapper and even a fish taco." - Wine Press NW

Wine Press NW says: "This boutique winery features one of the largest names in Washington with Mike Januik as the consulting winemaker, and the former Chateau Ste. Michelle craftsman sources from some of the state's best vineyards."

From the winery:

Ripe peach, pear and fresh pineapple aromas repeat on the palate and combine with a creamy mouth feel to give this wine a rich, concentrated impression; balanced acids produce a finish with generous length.

Vintage: The Columbia Valley's vintages are remarkably consistent. Summers are long and dry; autumn temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night allowing the grapes to retain their natural acidity. The 2003 vintage was no exception. It was a banner year and is most notable for its warm temperatures and high overall heat accumulation that produced wines with ripe fruit character.

Vineyard: Conner Lee is one of the state's oldest vineyards and is known for the exceptional quality of its fruit. Located just outside of Othello in the Columbia Valley, the vineyard enjoys moderate growing conditions that are well-suited to Chardonnay. Low yields along with careful canopy management give each cluster good sun exposure. The result is ripe fruit with plenty of character.

Winemaking: Barrel fermented in 50% new, 50% 1-year-old French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation gives the wine a rich, creamy mouth feel. Sur lie aging for 10 months integrates the fruit with the oak.