Wine: 2008 Varner Foxglove Chardonnay
Region: California
Sokolin Price: $14.95/btl
Rating: 91 RP
Looking back at the line-up we've reviewed and brought to your attention thus far, it dawned on us that we hadn't presented any white wine selections to you. It prompted us to sample a young chardonnay, the 2008 Varner Foxglove Chardonnay. For all white wine lovers out there, this one is not to be missed! We paired the wine with baked grey sole (also cooked with a splash of the chardonnay) & baby red-skinned potatoes, & the combination was just right. A light golden color, it smelled of fresh pears, melons, minerals, & gave off the slightest hint of summer flowers. It was crisp & alive upon the first sip & reminded us of sunny days that seem way too distant at this cold time of year.
Robert Parker said that these wines are "absolutely spectacular bargains from the very high-quality Varner Winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This is their less expensive line-up of wines, and I encourage readers to try them - they are true winners." He's so right. The Foxglove Chardonnay is definitely a gem priced under $15 that will become a staple house wine and guest favorite. It is drinking fabulously now and should hold up well for several more years.
Our recommendation: This is a perfect house white wine that you can pour for intimate dinner parties or large gatherings with lengthy guest lists. This wine is in stock and ready to ship now, but once we move into the warm spring months, it will be gone from our shelves and down the palates of those who were smart enough to recognize an incredible buy. At $14.95/btl, you should grab one and try it now. This is a great wine to satisfy your spring fever!