The visit to friends in San Jose, California, was filled with warm welcomes and the comfort of catching up over good food and wine. The setting was informal, in a cozy living room surrounded by personal memorabilia, offering a relaxed backdrop for sharing stories and laughter. Here, amidst this intimate gathering, I uncorked a bottle of Spoken West Chardonnay, drawn in by its striking 1960's retro label, hoping it would complement the casual, yet nostalgic atmosphere.
The Wine Experience: Upon pouring, the Chardonnay exhibited a promising golden color, suggesting depth and richness. The aroma was pleasant, with notes of golden apple and a hint of lemon zest, setting expectations for a vibrant taste. However, the palate experience was somewhat underwhelming. The wine was indeed soft and buttery, as promised, but lacked the depth or complexity one might hope for, especially with such an eye-catching label. It was drinkable but didn't linger in memory, much like a good background tune that you don't remember once it's over.
Pairing and Ambiance: Served with simple snacks like cheese and crackers, the wine didn't particularly stand out or enhance the flavors of the food. The retro label was a hit for conversation, evoking discussions about style and nostalgia from the 60s, which added to the evening's charm. However, the wine itself was more of an afterthought rather than the highlight of the gathering.
Review:
Taste: 78/100 - While the Spoken West Chardonnay has a pleasant, buttery texture with hints of apple and lemon, it lacks the complexity or uniqueness to make it memorable. It's a straightforward Chardonnay without much to distinguish it.
Value: 85/100 - At $13.00, it's priced reasonably for what it offers. It's not a bad wine, but it doesn't exceed expectations, making it a fair but not exceptional value.
Atmosphere: 80/100 - The label was a delight, fitting perfectly into the nostalgic vibe of the evening. Unfortunately, the wine didn't match the excitement the label generated, though it didn't detract from the ambiance either.
Overall: 81/100 - The Spoken West Chardonnay 2022, with its retro label, certainly adds a visual charm to any occasion, especially one with a nod to past decades. However, the wine itself falls short of the allure created by its packaging. It serves well as an easy-drinking Chardonnay for casual gatherings but doesn't stand out in a crowd of more distinctive wines.
