Chalone Monterey Chardonnay and Chalone Estate Grown Chardonnay, 2007

I think it's fun to compare wines.  Whether it's the same varietal from two different vineyards, different years, or different tiers.  I enjoy tasting and comparing to see what makes them different.  For this review I compared two Chardonnay's from Chalone Vineyards (California) and they are different tiers.   

Chalone Monterey Chardonnay is the lower tier (least expensive) for Chalone Vineyard.  It was too acidic for me and I was not able to taste the fruit profile the winemaker describes.  However, I did taste a hint of oak.  

Winemaker's Notes:  In our Chardonnay, bright, fruit-focused flavors keep cadence with sweet essence of oak. Baked pear, Braeburn apple and sweet tangerine are accented by wafts of floral and nutmeg. Well-balanced, the fruit remains bright and crisp, complemented by just enough oak to lend structure and complexity. This wine’s versatility makes it pleasant for sipping as well as a perfect complement to sautéed scallops or stuffed chicken breast.  

Chalone Estate Grown 2007 Chardonnay is the upper price range for Chalone Vineyards.  A very nice, crisp, smooth Chardonnay with pineapple and oak. This was delightful.   

Winemaker's Notes:  Bright aromas of mango, stone fruit and green apple gain intrigue from a hint of pineapple. These same fruit components dominate the rich flavors, enhanced by mineral nuances derived from our limestone soils. Chalone Chardonnay is the white wine for the red wine drinkers.

Choosing between the two wines is easy.  Hands down, I recommend Chalone Estate Grown 2007 Chardonnay.