Ste Chateau Michelle, Chardonnay 2009

White or Red: White
Grape(s): Chardonnay
Origin: Columbia Valley (WA)
Vintage: 2009
Price: $9.50

Overall:
If you're walking through the wine store stop at the section that says "Washington State" - it's likely small but give it a look see.  Only recently (10-15 years) has this locale made a name for itself.  In my opinion, chardonnays, such as this pretty penny, tend to be rockin'. 

Ste Chateau Michelle is a soft buttery chard with oak hints that's flanked by mild sweet citrus, vanilla and black licorice (very low key- I actually hate licorice flavor by itself).

If you're thinking that you want to try something "different" (only because the ill-advised are unaware of Washington's treasure) and be the darkhorse for the night, you should have all the confidence in the world that you're gonna score points. 

Deeper:
Take a whiff.  You get the buttery oak vanilla thing for sure. Then the taste yields soft citrus, vanilla and the hint of spicy black licorice.  The cast appears in that order for the taste but the finish is oaky/buttery.  All of it is well-balanced and comes through with this luscious buttery coating that seems to engulf your tongue.  You're left with a toasty oak finish and desire to repeat.  Here's to the folks north of cali- keep up the good work!