Revealing a light straw color as well as more intriguing aromas of nectarines, orange blossoms, and lemon oil, zesty acidity, medium body, a delicate touch of subtle wood, and a more complete, longer finish, the 2005 Chardonnay Reserve will drink well for 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 226-1395

Right now my preference between Mondavi’s Reserve and regular Chard is the regular. This is a better wine, from a classic Chablisian point of view, but it needs time. It’s firm and deep in fruit, with an impressive minerality, and the balance for aging. Lay this Chardonnay down for two to four years as it gains some bottle complexity.——S.H.(9/1/2007)—— 92