Weeknight Wine Series: Newton Chardonnay

I am still hesitant to purchase Chardonnay without tasting it first, as I find most California Chardonnays to be too oaky and butter--but I took a chance on the 2010 Newton Red Label Chardonnay from Costco a couple weeks.

I bought a bottle of this wine based on two criteria: the price ($13) and the description on the back label. This wine was described as having a "lively character" and "purity of fruit", which told me it would be more fruit-driven (not ruined by wood or malolactic fermentation). 

Straight from the fridge, this Chardonnay was nice and crisp. Aromas of stone fruit and crème brûlée led to a rich palate of mineral, bergamot, vanilla, and sweet oak. With a medium body, it was easy to drink as an aperatif.

But as it warmed up (less than half an hour later), the oak flavor became overwhelming and the mineral and fruit components quickly dissipated. If you'll looking for a rich Chardonnay, then you might like this one.