On Tue, 22 Feb 2005 18:53:01 GMT, "Ian Hayward"
> wrote:

>"Buttery" is one of the less easy terms to define and quantify IMO, but this
>satisfies my understanding of it nicely:
>
>http://www.penfolds.com/TheRange/Tas...Chardonnay.pdf
>
>Regards,
>
>Ian

I'm not sure. I certainly agree with the "maleolactic fermentation"
aspect and the "butterscotch" and the "French oak", but the comments
regarding the acidity, the citric notes, and "grapefruit-like finish"
are off-putting in the search for "buttery".

I like the butterscotch and the oak (ohmigod, I'll be ostracized
forever.....). But, I also like vanilla and warmth and those non-acid
fruits like the peach and mango mentioned.

Maybe we've just highlighted the difficulty in finding a wine to meet
a seeker's ideal....

I've not experienced Penfold's "The Valleys", but will surely look for
it. OTOH, Penfold's low-end "Rawson's Retreat" is absolute dreck!
IMHO.

Ed Rasimus
Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret)
"When Thunder Rolled"
www.thunderchief.org
www.thundertales.blogspot.com