Kim Crawford, Hawkes Bay (New Zealand) Chardonnay “Wild Grace” 2014

($26): Love the wine, hate the marketing.  Kim Crawford’s Wild Grace Chardonnay is one of their wines in a category that they refer to as “small parcels.” In short, they cull the best grapes from their best vineyards to make a reserve-style wine.  I’m usually opposed to that technique because by skimming the cream the basic wine is eviscerated.  But I must admit, the Wild Grace Chardonnay is captivating because of its…grace.  It conveys the right amount of richness buttressed by vibrant acidity avoiding the pitfall of a “look at me” type of power.  And for the price, it’s an outstanding value.
91 Michael Apstein Jan 3, 2017