2008 Shea Chardonnay Estate

Shea Vineyards grows a small amount of Chardonnay all of which goes into their label. The 2008 Chardonnay was aged in just 15% new oak. It is light gold in color with attractive aromas of pear, spiced apple, white peach, and hazel nuts. Creamy-textured on the palate, it has plenty of spicy fruit, good acidity, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It can be enjoyed over the next 3-4 years. Dick Shea has more than 20 clients for the fruit he grows at his large Yamhill-Carlton estate, most of whom vineyard designate the resulting wine. More often than not, it is the best wine in their respective portfolios and the one that sells out the most quickly. Currently Shea retains 25% of the fruit to go under the winery label. The wines are made by the talented Drew Voit with the vineyards managed by Javier Marin. Tel. (503) 241-6527; www.sheawinecellars.com