Talbott 2008 Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay -- Wine Review

Talbott Vineyards
2008 Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands, CA

The Talbott family began planting their vineyards in 1982. At the time, they were considered rebels, placing vines on hillsides deemed too steep or too cold for growing grapes. In its early years, Talbott made their wines from a combination of purchased grapes and those from their own vineyards. In 1994, they were able to purchase the Sleepy Hollow Vineyard to become an all-estate winery. Focusing on cool growing sites, Talbott has become internationally recognized for their Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. The 2008 Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay is a bright, full-bodied, American-style wine. On the nose it offers tropical notes with hints of toasted oak and vanilla. Stone fruit and guava dominate on the palate with racy, citrus acidity and hazelnut at the back of the palate. If we had any criticism, it would be that the wine lacks the subtlety of its French counterparts. However, its robust quality makes it well suited to hearty poultry dishes from garlic roast chicken to duck a l'orange to turkey with all the trimmings. Or try it with vegetarian foods like asparagus with hollandaise, wild mushroom risotto or a simple, ripe brie cheese.

Rating: 14/20
Price: $40

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For more information, see our Talbott Vineyards Winery Profile