Bachelder L’Ardoise Niagara Chardonnay 2024

The L’ardoise is an apt introduction to Bachelder’s terroir-driven repertoire of chardonnays. I love how concentrated it is, with notes of ripe apples, pears, and peaches and the sweet perfume of orchard blossoms. Its texture is charming too – fleshy, with supple, unobtrusive acidity that nevertheless supports and lifts the flesh of the palate. Oak influence adds textural nuance that is especially noticeable on the delicate finish. Tasted May 2026. (Megha Jandhyala, S.J.D.,winealign.com)