Beaulieu Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay 1998

Fine yellow-green gold color. The opulent, forward fruit strongly manifests itself with rich, pear-honey and vanilla extract aromas, with overtones of fresh herbs and marzipan. Very full, lush flavors reveal integrated, typically Carneros, ripe apple and peachy fruit combined with the spicy vanilla-cinnamon elements of oak. The finish is creamy, round, and toasty, neither "charry" nor resiny, the oak finely balanced the powerful fruit. This is a luxuriously textured, high extract wine; a great foil for rich fish dishes, savory chicken, or a veal roast.