Hedges Estate Vineyard Fume Chardonnay 1998

Floral, butter infused aromas introduce this pleasing wine. In the mouth, the 1998 Hedges Fume Chardonnay is smooth and viscous, exhibiting buttery apple, pineapple and melon flavors which underscore the wine's cepage: 55% Chardonnay and 45% Sauvignon Blanc. This is a delightful, well-integrated mélange that ends crisp, reflecting hints of lemon and vanilla toast on the tasty finish. No doubt the exceptional growing season in Washington in 1998 will send consumers clamoring for more of this producers fine wines.

The 1998 Hedges Fume Chardonnay lends itself well as an aperitif or a perfect match to a variety of seafood dishes. We are particularly partial to serving this Hedges with oysters and crabs. Why not serve it at your next party as the aperitif or greeters wine, along with a hot crab dip-we were glad we did. Rich poultry dishes also fare well with this enjoyable Fume Chardonnay.

Hedges Estate Vineyard is a chateau-styled winery in Washington State. Recently, it has garnered considerable worldwide attention for its exceptional blends of Fume Chardonnay and Cabernet Merlot. Located in the Columbia Valley of eastern Washington State, where conditions are nearly ideal for viticulture, Hedges produces compelling wines with intense flavors and aromas. Tom and Anne-Marie Hedges began Hedges Cellars in 1987. Founded initially, to produce first-rate table wines for sale in Sweden, the winery's first two vintages (1987 and 1988) were sold exclusively in that country. However, demand grew so rapidly for this winery's sumptuous blends that Tom and Anne-Marie consented to release limited quantities for domestic consumption. By growing superior fruit and by keeping a narrow focus on a few varietals and a few wines, Hedges has become a landmark winery in Washington. After only a dozen vintages, Hedges' wines have attracted a tremendous following, both in the United States and abroad. Today, this estate's wines can be found in specialty shops in nearly every state and in 15 foreign countries. Enjoy!