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focused on finding those wines that deliver great value to the wallet and the palate

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two tiered — one on the value end and another for those that I am expecting quite a bit more from...

2008 Panilonco Chardonnay/Viognier

2008 Panilonco Chardonnay/ViognierPrice: $3.99 @ Trader Joe’s imported by Evaki

What They Said:

Per the bottle “This complex, elegant white combines the crisp, fresh citrus flavours of Chardonnay with the rich apricot and honeysuckle character of Viogier to produce a smooth, ripe, vibrantly fruity wine. Delicious on its own, this wine is the perfect partner to seafood, fish, chicken, pasta dishes and salads.”

What I Think:

Had a few tips on this wine, that is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Viognier, from readers and wanted to give it a try. This one reminded me of a boxing match. In the first round the underdog, viognier, coated the mouth with full bodied yellow fruit flavors. Round 2, in the mid-palate , was taken by the Chardonnay showing some a lighter frame and some more vibrant fruit. The finish was a slugfest with each wine competing to rise above the other. Overall these two grapes more clashed than integrated but in a pleasant way. The result is a draw. At $4 you get what you pay for. I’m drinking these bottles to find those that I think are worth double that so I’ll pass on grabbing another bottle. That said, you should feel free to do so if it sounds of interest.

Rating: Skip It

2 comments to 2008 Panilonco Chardonnay/Viognier

  • The 07 wasn’t all that bad…haven’t had the ‘08, but I’m sure it’s just as you say. All of the cheap TJ’s wines are a crap-shoot from year to year. Some years, they’re really good, and some years they’re appallingly awful.

  • John Miller

    I am a Wine Enthusiast and I had a bottle of the Chardonnay/Viognier when I went to My Sons Home in Manteca Calif and I have to say I had to come home and have my Daugher Google this product becuase it was the most enjoyable chardonnay I have had in a long time.

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