2018 Girard Chardonnay

The Wine Enthusiast rates this richer style of Russian River Chardonnay outstanding, saying:

This robust white is creamy, rich and layered in buttery pineapple, melon and vanilla flavors, providing a lasting opulence that will appeal to fans of the style. It finishes in a dash of nutmeg and lasting oak.

But the more impressive review is from Loren Sonkin, who says:

This was the winner of a recent tasting of California Chardonnays.  Very impressive showing and much better than expected.  I have always like their reds, but I believe this was the first Chardonnay I have tried from them.  Green gold in color.  The nose is really interesting with ginger ale notes along with nice minerality and slight pears.  On the palate, this is clean with great minerality.  Just a slight kiss of vanilla.  Deep with a nice complexity.  This didn't change much over night two.  It should make great drinking over the next five to seven years but likely longer if well stored.  A nice match with heartier fish dishes or lighter foods in general, and also, on its own.  Very well priced, this is a tremendous value.

In fact, it beat out Shafer Red Shoulder, $80 Crescere and Flowers Camp Meeting Ridge and Far Niente!