Three bottles of 2005 Kistler Chardonnay (retail value $115 each)

“Aromatically complex, with a mix of ripe pear, fig, citrus ad hazelnut flavors that are tightly focused, with a lively acidity, excellent depth and balance and a long finish that keeps repeating the fruit and oak themes.” 

Wine Spectator 93 points

“With striking intensity, great elegance, richness, precision, and delineation, this beautiful Chardonnay brought to mind a top-notch French Corton-Charlemagne. “

Robert Parker, Jr.  94-96 points

About the vineyard:

Specializing in Burgundian syle Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Kistler Vineyards is a small family-owned winery located in the Russian River Valley in Sonoma, California.  Since its first vintage in 1979, the winery has grown in size to produce 25,000 cases per year.  Kistler Vineyards’ wines are released semi-annually and almost exclusively to its mailing list.