Château des Charmes ‘St. David’s Bench’ Chardonnay 2014
VQA St. David’s Bench $19.95 (430991) 13.0% alcohol
From the bitter winter and late spring of the 2014 vintage come alluring aromas of toasted nut, sweet ripe orchard fruit and citrus. The viticulturalist and vintner’s skills are on display in the creamy, lush texture of this well-crafted, medium-full bodied wine. Harmonious, complex and showing beautiful structure and texture, the lively acidity and subtle mineral character complement clean flavours of juicy ripe pear, melon and grilled pineapple. Hints of toasted coconut and the warmth of sweet baking spices add depth while the fine balance extends through a persistent, tangy, buttery finish. Well done, and a fine value! Serve with rosemary roast chicken with pan-roasted root vegetables. (Susan Desjardins)