Stag's Leap (Napa), Chardonnay 2007: ★★★ (08/01/09)

An overall good, sturdy Chardonnay from one of the most celebrated districts and wineries in Napa. Nothing boring about this bottle and its a great summertime treat to cut the humidity throughout this island country. Expectations were high for the maker and we give a 3-★ based on a couple of factors. Our first thought was slightly over dry for a well-balanced Chardonnay. Although, there is nothing wrong with a firm dry bottle of Chardonnay (we prefer either balanced-body to slightly fruity) this was overwhelmingly in the dry spectrum. The aftertaste was also sharp and left a bit of a sting because of the balance. Probably not our favorite, but without a doubt a nice, solid bottle, especially for dry char lovers. Price reasonable at about 3,500 yen (retail Japan).  -Lloyd & Company