Since we produced our first vintage of Chardonnay five years ago, this small-volume, under-the-radar wine has gained a fervent following among certain of our members (you know who you are). As well, it has found its way onto the lists at New York's The Modern at MOMA and Thomas Keller's French Laundry and Bouchon.

We have to confess we're rather partial to it ourselves. Our iconoclastic Napa Valley Chardonnay is lean and crisp, with tropical notes that make it a divine warm weather wine. Robust on the palate, it has the long finish you've come to expect of the Brown Estate family of wines. It's a brilliant way to welcome your guests for a summer soirée, or a superb accompaniment to your al fresco meal.



The only trouble is there isn't enough of the 2007 vintage to go around. Our Library members each received two bottles in the spring shipment, but unfortunately due to limited availability, we will not be shipping the customary one bottle each to our Estate members this year. We have a mere sixty cases remaining, and priority will be given to Estate and Library members, as well as to those who historically have stocked up on our Chardonnay each year.

If you are unfamiliar with this wine but intrigued by the proposition, next time you're in the Napa Valley, pop into Ma(i)sonry in Yountville. Our 2007 Chardonnay will be available to taste there for a limited time beginning the week of July 20th.