The 1995 Chardonnay Ovation represents Joseph Phelps' top cuvee of Chardonnay. Approximately 800 cases were made in 1995 of this lavishly rich, barrel-fermented, 100% malolactic style of Chardonnay that offers a fine imitation of a grand cru white Burgundy. Bottled without filtration, this impressively built, powerful, concentrated wine exhibits that leesy, smoky, hazelnut, ripe, buttery fruit component found in a top Cote d'Or Chardonnay, adequate acidity, plenty of glycerin and richness, and a long finish. The purity and underlying acidity give the wine freshness and balance. It should drink well for 4-5 years, perhaps longer. Joseph Phelps' winemaker, Craig Williams, was enthusiastic about the potential quality of the 1996 vintage, and at the same time, lamented the fact that yields were down once again, with production for the Cabernet Sauvignon off 10%-25% from the relatively modest yields of 1995. As I have indicated in past issues, this winery has been on top of its game since the 1991 vintage, turning out a bevy of top-notch Cabernets, along with their increasingly popular Vin de Mistral wines. Current and upcoming releases continue to reflect a commitment to high quality and innovative thinking. Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831

The 1995 Chardonnay Ovation represents Joseph Phelps' top cuvee of Chardonnay. Approximately 800 cases were made in 1995 of this lavishly rich, barrel-fermented, 100% malolactic style of Chardonnay that offers a fine imitation of a grand cru white Burgundy. Bottled without filtration, this impressively built, powerful, concentrated wine exhibits that leesy, smoky, hazelnut, ripe, buttery fruit component found in a top Cote d'Or Chardonnay, adequate acidity, plenty of glycerin and richness, and a long finish. The purity and underlying acidity give the wine freshness and balance. It should drink well for 4-5 years, perhaps longer.Joseph Phelps' winemaker, Craig Williams, was enthusiastic about the potential quality of the 1996 vintage, and at the same time, lamented the fact that yields were down once again, with production for the Cabernet Sauvignon off 10%-25% from the relatively modest yields of 1995. As I have indicated in past issues, this winery has been on top of its game since the 1991 vintage, turning out a bevy of top-notch Cabernets, along with their increasingly popular Vin de Mistral wines. Current and upcoming releases continue to reflect a commitment to high quality and innovative thinking.Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831