Michael Pozzan 2009 Chardonnay

Pozzan's 2009 Chardonnay is 100% Russian River Chardonnay. I find this wine to be a very no nonsense white that is will most likely only be enjoyed by true chardonnay lovers. This wine is not for those of you who "kinda like white wine and think some chardonnays are okay..." It has been aged in french oak for 6 months and you can taste it, but not in  a bad way.

The coloring is a lovely golden, straw color; which to me warns me that it may be heavy. This wine walks the line... It has a great round mouth feel, but is a little short on the finish. It's not tanic or acidic, so there is a nice smoothness to it. At first breath, the nose gives away it's lushness. There are notes of apples and a hint of vanilla. Upon tasting, my mind goes to apples on the stove top being wilted down in brown butter. A hint of butterscotch, almost. but there is no upfront sweetness. As it cascades around my taste buds, there is a hint of mango and honeydew. The slight fruitiness plays well with the richness of this wine.

I have been enjoying this lovely pour solo and would be great any time of the day. The wine maker thinks it would make a nice aperitif, and I tend to agree. If I were to pair it though, it would be fabulous with a nice seared piece of foie gras with a mango anise chutney over brioche. Or perhaps, go the simple route with an aged cheddar grilled cheese sandwich; crust removed, please.

Any which way you take it, this well-rounded chardonnay should not be missed. Not sure were to get it in Pensacola, but for you west coasters, I picked it up at BevMo! for around $14.