Francis Coppola California Chardonnay 2004

Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Chardonnay is produced from Monterey fruit.

Corey Beck of Niebaum-Coppola is Winemaker. The 100% Chard. was 1/2 barrel-fermented and malolactic-fermented, 1/2 stainless-steel-fermented. Aging was 8 months French oak. 89.5 points. Color: Light wheat-gold. Aromas: Pears, apples, plus restrained butter and nutty oak. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, moderately rich, and has nice tart acidity as well. The apple, pear, and lemon flavors reverberate on the finish, along with some evolving oak spice. Closure: Real cork. Retail: $15.  Value: Excellent.