WTN: 2009 Hillebrand Artist Series Unoaked Chardonnay (VQA)

VQA Niagara Peninsula; stainless-steel fermented; no MLF; 13% alc./vol.; $10.90 on general list in the VQA section of the LCBO; screwcap closure.

Pale, clear straw hue. Pineapple and Granny Smith apple on the nose, with a grainy whiff in the background. Crisp, brisk tartness on the entry; good structure; light- to medium-bodied on the mid-palate, with an invigorating interplay between the acidity and warmth; white-grapefruit rind all across the palate and into the firm, bracing finish. Balanced, all the same.

A nice starter (apéritif) wine that would work well with shellfish and ligher fare. Or, just by itself, served chilled, on a hot summer's day.

Paul, not only have I never visited this winery, but I don't recall ever having any of their wines. I'll make a point of going there the next time I cross the border. I believe they have a nice restaurant.

Paul, not only have I never visited this winery, but I don't recall ever having any of their wines. I'll make a point of going there the next time I cross the border. I believe they have a nice restaurant.

Yes Howie, Hillebrand is one of the "major" wineries, and they've been doing Chardonnay very well for a long time now. Definitely check it out next time you're on our side!

By the way, they are (as far as I know) the only winery in Niagara making a varietal Muscat wine. It's very nice, and worth trying.