The 1997 Chardonnay Robert Young Vineyard is a non-malolactic Chardonnay. It is oily and fat, with powerful, buttery flavors in addition to an unctuous texture, and a juicy, thick, complex, tropical fruit and lemon butter-dominated flavor profile. It cuts a big swath on the palate. This wine is meant to withstand 5-6 years of bottle age and not oxidize.
Kudos to winemaker Steve Reedy and Beringer for what they have accomplished at Chateau St. Jean. Tel. (707) 833-4134; fax (707) 833-4200