Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay 2006 Columbia Valley

At his cabana at the beach this afternoon my friend (thanks Mark!) invited me to try a Washington state Chardonnay with him along with some shrimp cocktail -- it was a perfect match, not to mention refreshing. On the nose are aromas of an array of citrus fruits, honey and mild oak, while on the palate a buttery cream with a nice acidity, combined to form a complex, balanced wine. Not usually a big white wine fan, this one was one I could drink easily and the price is right, about $13. I could also see this going well with chicken or swordfish or even a spicy Thai dish.