($55): Nickel & Nickel is an exemplar for highlighting terroir — the differences between vineyards — in California.  For years, their lineup of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay dispel the notion that all wines from Napa and Sonoma Valleys taste the same.  Since the winemaking is basically the same with each of the wines, the difference is flavor profile is due to where the grapes are grown.  Tasting the Nickel & Nickel Truchard Vineyard side-by-side with their Stiling Vineyard bottling (also reviewed this week) is an enlightening experience and not just for wine geeks.  “Normal” consumers will immediately learn that not all California Chardonnays taste the same.  The 2013 Truchard Vineyard bottling is opulent and ripe, with subtle vanilla and spice hints showing from the aging in oak barrels.  A weighty wine, but not oversized, it will appeal to those who prefer some heft in their Chardonnay.
91 Michael Apstein Apr 28, 2015