Wine: 2008 Westbend Vineyards 2008 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay.
Cost: $23.
Review: Westbend Vineyards continues to show how well chardonnay can do in North Carolina with its 2008 vintage of barrel-fermented chard. This is an oaky chard, but what's noteworthy is the quality of the oak. Not all oak barrels are alike, and winemaker Mark Terry's particular choice of French barrels plays a
big role. This dry white starts with a toasty, almost nutty nose with hints of vanilla. The taste offers a bit of apple, but it is well integrated with the oaky, butterscotch flavors. This is a mouth-filling wine that's smooth and rich right through the finish. It is available at the winery.
For more information, visit www.westbendvineyards.com.
-- By Michael Hastings
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