As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate a wide range of wines, including the Kirkland Chardonnay. When it comes to rating this particular vintage, I must say that it may not be everyone's cup of tea, or in this case, glass of wine.
Upon tasting the Kirkland Chardonnay, I initially found it to be quite promising. It displayed a pleasant aroma of ripe fruits, with hints of citrus and tropical notes. The nose was inviting and gave me high hopes for what was to come. The wine had a medium body and a nice, golden hue in the glass, which added to its visual appeal.
On the palate, the Chardonnay offered flavors of apples, pears, and a touch of oak. The fruitiness was balanced by a subtle acidity, giving the wine a refreshing quality. However, as I continued to savor it, I noticed a rather abrupt and somewhat unpleasant finish. This is where the wine fell short for me.
In terms of rating, I would place this Kirkland Chardonnay in the range of 88-89 points. It certainly has its merits, particularly in terms of aroma and initial taste. However, the disappointing finish brings down its overall score.
It is worth noting that taste preferences can vary greatly among individuals. Some may find the finish of this wine less off-putting than others, and therefore may rate it higher. Similarly, those who enjoy a more pronounced oak influence in their Chardonnays may appreciate this wine more than I did.
To provide a more comprehensive evaluation, I would like to highlight some key points about the Kirkland Chardonnay:
Pros:
– Pleasant aroma with ripe fruit, citrus, and tropical notes.
– Medium body and attractive golden color.
– Refreshing acidity that balances the fruitiness.
Cons:
– Abrupt and somewhat unpleasant finish.
The Kirkland Chardonnay is a wine that shows promise but falls short in the finish department. While it may not be my personal favorite, it could still be enjoyed by those who appreciate its particular characteristics. Ultimately, the rating of 86 points reflects its overall quality and the impact of the disappointing finish.