Kinetic refers to motion, and a Chardonnay that has come all the way from France has certainly experienced a lot of motion.  While many Chardonnays have reputations for being  boring, 2011 Kinetic Chardonnay suggests it’s going to be a little different.  Can it make waves among the competition to win a spot on the Thanksgiving table, or is it too excited to come down?  

Sight:  A deep solid gold.

Smell:  There’s a nice sort of simple pear and creamy caramel.  It has a touch of nuttiness and cream.

Sip:  The start is a little on slow side, it’s a little on the thick, almost creamy side, while also being flabby.  The wine is a little more nutty than might be expected, channeling toasted almonds, with green apple skin, fresh pears, and a bit of caramel. [A.B.V. 13%]

Savor:  Dried apricots explode and take over everything.  It’s really quite amazing.

2011 Kinetic Chardonnay is not really excited, more so fat and wobbly.  The most fun characteristics are definitely the uncommon chardonnay flavors, like nutty almonds and huge dried apricots.  The area it needs the most help in is balancing the acidity and smoothness.  Currently, it’s sitting right in the spot where it’s not quite bright enough, and not quite not bright enough to make it great.  Overall though, for a turkey day wine, 2011 Kinetic Chardonnay might be an interesting choice, but it’s going to be a little polarizing.

Verdict:  Smooth but Flabby, Apricot, Pear, Nutty
Price:  $9.99
France

Looking for an alternative:  2010 Muirwood Chardonnay is amazing value with tons of great oak and fruit flavors.