Robert Parker, Jr.-The Wine Advocate:  Rated as An outstanding wine of exceptional complexity and character. "Moving toward a full-throttle, white Burgundy-styled wine, the 2008  Chardonnay Reserve reveals notes of brioche, wheat thins, roasted nuts,  honeysuckle, white peaches, pears and a hint of smoky oak (it was aged  in barrel for 16 months). Full-bodied with more concentration than the Sonoma cuvee. This impressive,  cork-finished Chardonnay should drink nicely for 3-4 years." Feb 2011

Winery:   "The grapes for our 2008 Reserve Chardonnay come primarily from Ferrari-Carano’s vineyard in the Napa Valley Carneros appellation. Comprised of three Chardonnay clones, this wine has lush hazelnut, spice, butterscotch and Fuji apple aromas with delicious caramel, pear, fig, crème brule, and toasty oak flavors with a creamy, buttery finish. The cool climate of Napa Valley Carneros imparts its unique delicacy and finesse to the wine, while the Alexander Valley component adds an intensely rich mouth-filling character."

Wired For Wine: Just like its name, the Ferrari-Carano is the luxury vehicle of creamy, buttery Chardonnays.  Pair it with just about anything from the ocean, and you will not be disappointed.  One of our favorites with this intense Chardonnay is a fritto misto di pesce, fried seafood with lemon and sea salt.  Pan-seared scallops with potato zucchini cake is another terrific option.  Because of the fuller body of this deliciously creamy wine, it is easily able to handle richer foods with butter or cream sauces.  How about a linguine carbonara with pancetta or bacon?  Finally, and on the simpler side, we love this Reserve Chardonnay with roast chicken.  Serve it with a gremolata of lemon and orange zest with parsley, and some polenta with ricotta and parmesan on the side.  Pour another glass after the table has been cleared, and have it with a serving of heavenly French Charolais goat cheese.  The slightly tart flavor and its chalky texture are perfect for the hints of caramel and toasty oak in the Ferrari-Carano.  Gourmands, start your engines!

Size:  750ml, cork
Varietal:  100% Chardonnay
Alcohol:  14.3%
Ageing:  9 months in French oak barrels (49% new, 51% older) plus 6 months in neutral French oak
Region:  92% Napa Valley Carneros, 8% Alexander Valley, California