Planeta Chardonnay

Romazini: 5/5 Stars

The Winespectator: 90/100 Points

Vintage 2007: This has a lovely, inviting gold color, with loads of ripe apple, pineapple, nectarine, honey, flowers and mineral on the nose, following through to a full-bodied palate, with good fresh acidity and a long finish of piecrust, cream and mineral. All in harmony. Opulent. Drink now. 16,665 cases made.

Robert Parker: 89/100 Points

Vintage 2007: I was very impressed with the 2007 Chardonnay, which isn't the heavy behemoth of prior vintages. Super-ripe tropical fruit, butterscotch and sweet spices are layered into the frame of this quintessentially Sicilian Chardonnay. The wine reveals notable length and a clean, refreshing finish that provides balance. The 2007 is an especially elegant Chardonnay from Planeta. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011.

This is one of the better sets of wines I can remember tasting from Planeta. The estate seems to have dialed back the use of oak, and at their finest, the wines offer lovely balance.