2003 Fisher Sonoma Chardonnay Whitney’s Vineyard: Only 150 cases of this medium straw colored Chardonnay were made. It saw 50% new French oak, with the remainder 1 ½ year old French oak, spending 16 months sur lies, and not undergoing 100% malolactic fermentation. Showing just the right touch of toast to the judicious kiss of sweet oak, it offers up floral, creamy green apple, pear, melon, lemon and spice in both flavor and aroma, with excellent acidity, a velvety mouth feel and rich, lovely character that continues to build through the long finish. Whitney made the point that the saffron brings out the citrus, and indeed, this is a fine match for the first course. A delicious '96 Whitney's Chardonnay tasted recently gives testament to their ageability, so this one should improve through at least 2010.

2000 Fisher Napa Cabernet Sauvignon Lamb Vineyard: This deep, dark garnet is classic Napa Cabernet, so it’s not surprising that Whitney Fisher calls it her favorite 2000. A kiss of oak graces deep, dark cassis, black currant, tobacco and cigar box perfume, and these impressions follow through beautifully on the palate, with silky tannins that don’t intrude upon the pleasure of drinking a glass or two tonight, fine acids and a long, satisfying finish. Showing a lovely balance of semi – sweet Cabernet fruit and the earthier tobacco qualities underneath, this is already drinking very well, but certainly has the structure to improve for some years yet. I received a generous first pour, so I sat and savored it for a nice little while.

Reporting from Day-twah,

geo t.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: geo t.,