Barnard Griffin Winery, Columbia Valley (Washington) Chardonnay 2021

 Unabashedly light yellow in color, an indication of the midsummer heat spikes in the generally warm vintage, this is the winery’s popularly priced Chardonnay.  With heat spikes dominating the growing season, the result was reduced tonnage due to small berries and clusters.  Given the nature of the vintage, this turned out to be a major league Chardonnay at a low price.  72% was fermented in neutral French oak, and the wine was barrel aged for 9 months.  The nose displays green apple fruit and some chalky hints.  On the palate it is medium full bodied with lively flavors of apple and pear fruit. There’s enough citrus and acidity to bring it to a pleasing finish.  It held up well to chilling, tasted fine 3 days after being opened, and can repay short term cellaring.  All this for 12 bucks?  Impressive.  5000 cases were produced.