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Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/662062
www.cheersonline.com 53 March/April 2016 • CHARDONNAY SELECTIONS WINE PANELISTS RATE AND REVIEW THEIR FAVORITE CHARDS (98) Evening Land Seven Springs Vineyard Summum Chardonnay 2013 (Oregon). The best white wine made in America. The winery's efforts to create a Grand Cru the likes of white Burgundy have been realized. This wine dances on the palate on the way to a long, satisfying fi nish. ($89.99) (98) J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines J. Lohr Arroyo Vista 2014 (California). Winemaker Kristen Barnhisel continues the fi ne-tuning on Lohr's ultimate version of the great white Burgundys of France. Classic techniques abound, from early-morning hand-picking/sorting and stirring of the lees to extended barrel aging (14 months). Great mouthfeel, very viscous, rich fl avors, and a long, lingering fi nish. A true Monterey classic that should have the French looking over their shoulders. ($29.99) (97) Duckhorn Vineyards 2013 (California). Just their second release for a chardonnay, this wine confi rms that Duckhorn and Renee Ary are on the right path. Rich, vibrant fruit highlights the best fruit sourced As always, our wine panel's picks include brief tasting notes, a rating and the wine's retail price (which can vary from store to store and market to market). If you're a restaurant or retail beverage professional with a specialty in wine and you're interested in participating in the panel, please contact associate editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz@epgmediallc.com or 203-855-8499 x2225. RATING SYSTEM Five stars (92-100 points) A top-fl ight wine. Superior in taste and character and providing an outstanding price/value relationship. Four stars (86-91 points) A superb wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back. Three stars (80-85 points) An above-average wine at a reasonable price point, one that many consumers will enjoy.