A complex and expressive white wine “Molly” offers nuances of citrus, green apple and peach along with a backnote of wet stone minerality. If you aren’t familiar with Chenin Blanc, or know it mostly in its lusher, sweeter Loire Valley style, this dry version may be a surprise. It is subtle, without being the least bit austere, and the wine’s charms are revealed slowly at first rather than in an emotional rush of flavor. Kudos to Chappellet for producing this enchanting white wine.
Chappellet, Napa Valley (California) Chenin Blanc 2018
By Marguerite Thomas