Scoring 18+ Dionysian points on their 20-point scale, the 26 year-old wine surprised us all ! The 1994 Bernardus Chardonnay from Monterey County had 13.3% alcohol, and cost about $16 then. It was deep gold; almost too dark and its nose was tropical fruits with a honey caramel aroma. This was a Californian that matured like a white Burgundy

It was served with a roasted chicken and the rich buttery flavor of the wines made the basic bird a royal treat.

It’s rare that Californian Chardonnay can age so sell. It was rounded-out with a full buttery-body. Sadly, it was my last one, but I’ll try aging a few newer vintages as long as the alcohol is still in the 13’s. In Vino Veritas.