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THE STORY
Perched in the remote Gavilan Mountain Range, 1,800 feet above California's Salinas Valley, this rugged vineyard sits at the base of an extinct volcano bordering the Pinnacles National Monument. Chalone Vineyard is one of the few wineries in the U.S. growing grapes in limestone-based soils, the same as in Burgundy. The spare, well-drained ground, limited rainfall and low crop levels attracted Dick Graff, who wanted to make top-flight Burgundian-styled Chardonnay. Graff made his first vintage under the Chalone Vineyard label in 1966, producing what became a benchmark for California Chardonnay.
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Chalone Chardonnay Estate 2007
Exhibits a complex mix of subtle pear, mineral, pleasant earthy notes and floral scents. Tight and full-bodied, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2012
Wine Spectator: 92
Regular Price: $30.99Coupon Code Price: $22.99
Bottle Size: 750 ml
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THE STORY
The fabled Bien Nacido Vineyard is the primary vineyard source for Au Bon Climate wines. Located at the northern end of California's Santa Barbara County, the Bien Nacido vineyard produces internationally renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines from more than 40 different producers.
Bien Nacido is made up of over 900 acres of vines, nestled in a canyon twenty miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Though the ocean can be viewed only from the hills surrounding the vineyards, the influence of the sea is felt in the cool temperatures of the Santa Maria AVA. Warm days and cool nights combine with soils composed of gravel and calciferous clay to produce wines with a unique and much sought-after character.
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Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2007
Crisp and tightly wound, with sleek pineapple, melon and green apple notes that are firm, focused and full-bodied. This is most impressive on the finish, where the flavors are juicy. Drink now through 2013.-J.L.
Wine Spectator: 91
Regular Price: $24.99Coupon Code Price: $17.99
Bottle Size: 750 ml
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Talley Estate Chardonnay 2007
A shade trimmer than Talley's Edna Valley bottling, with a flinty mineral edge to the floral apple and pear fruit. Full-bodied, ending with a complex, lingering finish. Drink now through 2012.-J.L.
Wine Spectator: 91
Regular Price: $27.99Coupon Code Price: $20.99
Bottle Size: 750 ml
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