2007 Radio-Coteau Chardonnay Savoy

The 2007 Chardonnay Savoy should thrill readers looking for minimally oaked, crisp, elegant Chardonnays. Delicately-scented (lemon blossom, pear, nectarine, and orange rind) with medium body, wonderful freshness, intense fruit, good acidity, and a stylish, European-like personality, its cool climate terroir has provided considerable vivaciousness. An artisanal winery run with meticulous attention to detail by Eric Sussman, Radio-Coteau continues to follow a fair pricing strategy for its high quality Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Syrahs, and Zinfandels. As a postscript, Eric Sussman told me that his winery was certified biodynamic in 2008. All his fermentations are native (indigenous yeasts from the vineyard), he uses minimal SO2, minimal racking, extended lees contact, and bottles all his wines in house with no fining or filtration. These are all characteristics of the younger generation of conscientious wine producers. Tel. (707) 887-8335; Fax (801) 340-6041