A Mass Market French Chardonnay

A Mass Market French Chardonnay

Can you get a decent French Chardonnay at this price?...

Kressmann Chardonnay

I won’t count how many Chardonnays I have reviewed including numerous French offerings. Today’s example comes from the high-volume Kressmann winery, which was founded in 1871. They are so big that their production facilities and offices encompass 7.5 hectares (that’s just about 20 acres), bigger than many producer’s vineyards. Kressmann’s vineyards stretch over 900 acres (365 hectares) in Bordeaux and 650 acres (260 hectares) in Languedoc. Their plant can fill 25 thousand bottles an hour. The companion wine is an Israeli Chardonnay costing more than five times as much.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Kressmann Selection Chardonnay 2011 12% alcohol about $8.

Let’s start with the marketing materials. “Tasting Note : Aromas of citrus, apple and pears. Well-balanced with a good finish. Serving Suggestion : Ideal as an aperitif or to complement grilled fish or roast chicken.” And now for my review.
At the first sips this wine tasted of apples and had slightly unpleasant acidity. When I nibbled on Japanese rice crackers its acidity was muted and I sensed some metal. In the presence of a dry, honey garlic barbecued chicken breast this liquid was wispy and not very present. I got pears. Dry General Tao barbecued chicken thighs brought lime to the forefront of my glass. A medley of sautéed red, yellow, and orange peppers continued the limeiness and the libation was fairly long. Commercial potato salad took away the fruit and didn’t leave much else in Chardy.

This review of a Kressmann Chardonnay continues on my web site at
http://theworldwidewine.com/Wine_reviews/Weekly_cheap_wine_reviews/Y2013/wine_lovers_bargain_review_mmfc.php