Murphy-Goode Barrel-Fermented Sonoma Chardonnay 1998

Rich, buttery fruit, subtle spice and judicious oak tones form the olfactory attack of the barrel-fermented 1998 Murphy-Goode Chardonnay. The cooler than normal, shy-bearing 1998 harvest produced wines of fine, fruit intensity; and certainly this Murphy-Goode is no exception to the rule. Tropical fruit and a melange of long citrus flavors fill the mouth. Heightened by barrel fermentation and a five month stay in oak barrels, the Murphy-Goode Chardonnay is about as close to textbook California Chardonnay as one can get. Serve chilled and enjoy it over the next year.

Scallops, shrimp and fresh pasta in an artfully crafted cream sauce provide a memorable meal to the extroverted 1998 Murphy-Goode Chardonnay. Grilled chicken breasts marinated in olive oil, garlic and Provencal herbs makes another fine impression. Be assured that you can serve this lovely Chardonnay with any light to medium flavored dish and enjoy it, so as you like it.

Undoubtedly, Murphy-Goode's assembly of partners, family members and winemaking acumen, headed by the very talented Christian Benz, magnificently figure in this winery's success. Whether it be the incomparable quality of this estate's grapes or the intelligent, minimal interventionalist philosophy of Tim Murphy and Dale Goode, this wonderful Sonoma County Estate seems to have the Midas touch. The brain child of two old-time Sonoma County grape growers and friends, Dale Goode and Tim Murphy, Murphy-Goode winery turns out a wide variety of rich, flavorful wines that are marketed by the highly talented Dave Ready and his winery associates. Murphy-Goode draws grapes from three estate owned vineyards in Alexander Valley, as well as select, neighboring sites that are closely monitored by Tim Murphy. Presently, the winery produces a host of award-winning wines: Chardonnay, Fume Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Zinfandel. To its credit, and to the benefit of consumers and the environment, Murphy-Goode practices environmentally sound farming techniques, which account for much of the up front, natural appeal of its wines.