1997 Chardonnay Beerenauslese No 6 NV, Kracher (37.5cl Half Bottle)

"As always with Alois Kracher, he has labeled his wines either "Nouvelle Vague" or "Zwischen den Seen". The Nouvelle Vague (listed as NV) were vinified and aged in new oak barrels whereas the Zwischen den Seen (ZDS) were produced using the area's traditional, oak-less, methods. Oak spices and yellow fruits can be discerned in the aromatics of the 1997 Chardonnay Beerenauslese Number 6 Nouvelle Vague. Its medium to full-bodied and satin-textured core of apricots, spiced pears, and tropical fruits also reveals Kracher's use of new oak barrels. It is plump, forward, and reminiscent of an over the top California Chardonnay. Because of its loads of sweet fruits and oak, drink it over the next 6-7 years." Wine Advocate, October 2000