Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2003
Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2003, is what I might describe as a "classic" chardonnay;
crisp, dry and bursting with flavor. I feel that I should preface this review with the disclosure that I have never been particularly fond of chardonnays. Most are perhaps a bit too citric for my taste. While Freemark Abbey is an excellent, widely known and well-respected winery, I cannot say that I was overly enthused with this chardonnay although I am a huge fan of several of their red wines.
Visually, this chardonnay is a clear, pale yellow. On the nose, the main aroma is pineapple and citric with a hint of clove. A rather perplexing combination that was a little difficult to define.
According to the Freemark Abbey chardonnay label, "For decades, Freemark Abbey's Napa Valley Chardonnay has maintained its enviable status as one of Napa's "classic" styles, utilizing little or no malolactic fermentation. Typically, this would indicate a softer, non-metalic mouthfeel and I would agree this is a somewhat soft wine. I would describe the forward flavor of this wine as herbal and grassy. The primary mid-palate flavors are that of green apple, and pineapple; tart, crisp and acidic. It is these mid-palate flavors that I didn't particularly care for with this chardonnay. The finish is long and soft and in my opinion is its redeeming quality. Having said that, I'd like to remind you that chardonay is not my favorite varietal. If you are a fan of chardonnay you just might love Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2003.
Alcohol: 13.9% Retail price: about $19.00