The 2019 Chardonnay Escudo Rojo from Casablanca is 50% aged for six months in 25% new French barrels. Greenish-yellow in the glass, it presents clear notes of apples and ginger along with pleasant vanilla and oak flavors. Unctuous and indulgent in the mouth; the lees bring a velvety texture well-balanced by the mild acidity.

Ripe and filled with custardy accents to the baked apple and pear tart flavors. The fleshy finish has sea salt and green herbal accents. Drink now. 8,000 cases made, 800 cases imported.

Chunky apple and tropical fruit aromas lean in the direction of oaky popcorn and dusty lanolin. This young Chardonnay feels round and obtuse, with flavors of raw oak, popcorn and grilled corn. Modest acidity lengthens an oak-heavy finish.