Raymond Vineyards

"Eloquence"
Late Harvest Chardonnay
Dessert Wine
California
2006

General information:  58% from Napa, 42% from Monterey County.  Dessert wines are always very sweet, and they change dramatically in taste when paired with a sweet dessert.  Raymond's Late Harvest Chardonnay doesn't come out often.  The conditions have to be perfect for the grapes to get what is called a "noble rot."  You can read more about this process here.  I know it doesn't sound that appetizing, but it's perfectly safe (not to mention delicious).

Colin:  I was not well versed in these kinds of wines before Napa.  However, after tasting a few, this is one of my favorites (I like Ports better).  Like a dried apricot, this is very sweet.  It's smooth and warming.  I think that Raymond triumphs with this dessert wine - I am not a big fan of other Raymond varieties, but this had me sold.
Rating:  10 out of 10 glasses

Rachel:  Dessert wines can be brilliant - or they can be too sweet.  Raymond's is perfect.  IT has some hints of apple and a very light alcohol taste.  It pairs beautifully with any sweet treat.  Also, we had this bottle in the fridge for three months - opened, drinking a little at a time.  And Raymond's employees told us the truth - it really does hold up well, even after being opened.  Great purchase!
Rating: 10 out of 10 glasses

Aerate:  Colin - No // Rachel - Don't you dare!

Where can I find it?
We got it directly at the vineyard, and haven't seen it in stores since -- luckily, they sell it online!  See Raymond's Eloquence page to purchase.

Cost:  $15.00