Andretti Chardonnay, Napa Valley 1996

[hotwine]

Not your typical over-oaked Chardonnay, but a soft, supple faintly buttery confection with good fruit and just enough alcohol. Although offered at the vintner dinner as an alternative to the Pinot Noir that was served with the salmon appetizer, this one worked well as a palate-cleanser prior to the main courses of beef and lamb. At $9.99, it's a good value, and worth making room for in the cellar.