The 2008 Hawk Crest Chardonnay from Monterey, California, with 13.5% alcohol scored a very nice 15 points on the 20-point Dionysian Scale of 20.
At under $15, it a great value fruit forward dinner wine. It was made to drink on release, but at eight years old, it had softened and developed a subtle floral nose over the pear, apple ,and vanillas from the light oak. The color was a deeper gold, developed with age, instead of the straw yellow color it had when released.
Served with Sweet Potato Fries, Beats, and grilled fresh Halibut, the wine proved itself as a very good food wine. It was balanced and refreshing.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has produced Hawk Crest since 1974 and it continues to be a smart buy. In vino veritas.
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