2010 Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Vintner's Reserve

The 2010 Chardonnay Vintner’s Reserve wraps around the palate with layers of expressive fruit. Butterscotch, spices, flowers and hazelnuts add complexity. This is another fabulous value. The entire 2,000,000 case production is made from estate-owned vineyards, which is simply mind-boggling to contemplate. Frequent lees-stirring and aging in French oak barrels impart a level of textural richness that is uncommon for a wine in this price range. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. I must say I was deeply impressed with the wines I tasted from Kendall-Jackson. Qualitatively the wine are head and shoulders above the vast majority of what is available in the same price points, but what amazes me most is Kendall-Jackson’s ability to achieve such a high average level of quality with production levels that are truly eye-popping. In 2010, which was not an abundant year, Kendall-Jackson produced nearly 2,000,000 cases of the flagship Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay. This is a brilliant showing from winemaker Randy Ullom and his team comprised of Matthew Smith (reds) and Mark Theis (whites). Tel. (800) 769-3649; www.kj.com