($15, Louis Latour USA): Maison Louis Latour, a top-notch Burgundy négociant founded over 200 years ago, branched out into the Ardèche, a sleepy area of central France, 25 years ago to have a go with Chardonnay there.  It was their first venture outside of Burgundy and continues to be a resounding success because of the outstanding value of the wines they produce there.  Instead of the minerality that Chardonnay delivers when grown in Burgundy, Latour’s Grand Ardèche Chardonnay has an engaging pineapple-y like fruitiness.  But combine that with the hallmark Latour spine of acidity and you have a fresh and lively Chardonnay perfect for everyday drinking.  For once, the back label is useful and accurate when it says, “unbeatable value for money.”   It really is.
88 Michael Apstein Feb 3, 2015