L'Ecole No 41, Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2022

This Chardonnay comprised of fruit from three vineyards throughout the greater Columbia Valley AVA. The Schmitt and Oasis Vineyards in the Yakima Valley, and further north, the Evergreen Vineyard. This wine has a good deal of depth and richness; aromatics of toasted hazelnuts, ripe spiced pear and lemon verbena all leap from the glass. The palate shows absolute concentration with rich peach flavours, baked apple and pear with nutmeg. There are savoury notes of herb and hints of lemon curd. This is a serious wine that, at just over USD 20, is an undeniable bargain.