A wine with an interesting set of tastes, not enough to get it a higher grade, but it would be good with a nice dinner I think. As for drinking by itself, only so-so.

It’s a bright, clear light straw color wine, with at least a hint of some structure to it. There’s some oakiness, not a lot of sweetness (medium dry) and an interesting tightrope act between citrus and tree (fruit) tastes. There seems to be a somewhat muted balance and a short finish and no off notes. Good for a nice dinner (but not too spicy.)

Grade: B- Price: $9

Cycles Gladiator
2005
Chardonnay
Central Coast
California
Alcohol: 13.5% by volume.