It was a hair thing.
His hair…
My hair…
His hair…
My hair…
I felt the connection.
So, I’ll be honest. I
picked up this bottle of Chardonnay because of our obvious hair connection.
Don’t judge me.
After all, it is estimated that up to 75% of wine shoppers
buy their wine based on the label.
Hey, at least I didn’t buy a wine bottle with a cute kitten
or puppy label! (Research shows that American wine consumers are 40% more
likely to buy a wine with a cute animal on the label than a standard
information-providing label. Salon article by Steve Kalpan.)
And, I already
knew I liked this Chardonnay with its crisp, bright style.
The Charles & Charles label is a collaborative effort that
began in 2008 between Charles Smith (K Vintners, Charles Smith Wine, curly
haired man) and Charles Bieler (Three Thieves, The Show wines). They produce just three wines each year, one
being this Chardonnay.
The 100% Chardonnay grapes are primarily from select old vine
vineyards in Washington State’s
Columbia Valley,
which add some nice concentration to the wine.
Grapes are fermented with just 20% new French oak. The result is a Chardonnay with both finesse
and boldness, showing layers of bright fruit.
The Chardonnay shows a pale yellow/slight gold color and
offers aromas of tropical fruits, bananas, orange blossom and lemon. These aromas are light, but layered and
plentiful. On the palate I found crisp
apple, orange and tangerine with some lemon citrus as well. There is just a hint of oak on the finish
which finishes out with pleasing, lingering citrus.
In a way, it is a wine with pleasant contradiction—light
body with bold flavors and aromas; rich mouth feel with lively, refreshing
acidity.
The Charles & Charles Chardonnay was a delight on an early
spring day! I sat outside, sipped my
wine, and let the wind blow through my unruly curls.
