Columbia Crest Two Vines Chardonnay (75cl, 13.5%)

A fruit-forward Chardonnay from Washington State's Columbia Valley, fermented in stainless steel with no oak ageing. Grapes are fed directly to press, then cold-settled for two days before a 14- to 20-day temperature-controlled fermentation. The name refers to a trellising method that positions grape clusters for optimum sun exposure. The 2021 vintage earned a Bronze medal at the Sommelier Wine Awards. Aroma of green apple, ripe pear, sweet lemon, honeycomb and a subtle coconut-spice thread. The palate is crisp with apple and melon, moving to ripe pear and candied pineapple, with zippy acidity and a gently creamy texture. The finish is medium in length with juicy pear and lingering lemon zest.