1999 Hamacher Cuvee des Forets Chardonnay Butterscotch, roasted apple and hazelnuts lure you in. Richly textured lifted by a bright zap of acidity, this wine is fully mature and utterly enjoyable. As the wine warms closer to cellar temperature, intriguing woodsy notes bordering on the apricot scent of chanterelles come to the forefront. 1999 was a powerhouse vintage, but it almost didn’t turn out that way. Saved by a late, last minute streak of heat and warmth in mid-summer through fall, the fruit that came in to be processed was fully ripe and chalked full of round flavors. This is a great example of a patient vintner who allowed the fruit to do its thing; the wine shines bright indeed!

DATE TASTED: 3-6-14