2009 Moone-Tsai Napa Valley Chardonnay

Gorgeous and concentrated, the nose of this straw-gold Chardonnay opens with aromas of honeyed Asian pear, light caramel, and crème brûlée. The weighty, creamy palate is balanced beautifully by a fresh acidity, and flavors of golden apple and cream soda linger long into the finish. Careful use of oak frames, rather than overwhelms, the elegance of this wine.

Bald Mountain, a neighbor of Mount Veeder, is situated in the Mayacamas Mountains on the western border of the Napa Valley. The south-facing vineyard sits at nearly 1600 feet above sea level, and offers stunning views of both the Sonoma and Napa Valleys, as well as of Marin's Mt. Tamalpais to the south. Cool sunshine is abundant throughout the growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly while varietal character evolves completely.