Had a glass of the 2013 Ch. Ste. Michelle Chardonnay Columbia Valley Indian Wells at a work function cocktail hour. Light yellow-gold color. Aromas of light Chardonnay fruit, medium bodied, moderate/balanced acidity, ripe/round, with typical Chardonnay flavors and a hint of nutmeg perhaps. Overall, perfectly pleasant, but definitely outclassed by a glass (or two) of the 2012 Ch. Ste. Michelle Chardonnay Columbia Valley ‘Ethos’, which accompanied the follow-on dinner. Again, a light yellow-gold color, almost the same as the Indian Wells. Much more expressive aromatically, though, with an exotic hint of dried pineapple. Very nicely proportioned (medium-bodied+), balanced, bright acidity, complex Chardonnay flavors, and a long finish. Don’t what these cost exactly, but between the two I’d pay the premium for the Ethos.
Indian Wells $14.99, Ethos $38.99.
Still probably worth it for the Ethos, though I’m not rushing out to buy any. The Indian Wells seems reasonably priced for what it is.
I like the Indian Wells bottling I had a few months ago. Haven’t tried the Ethos one.
Two totally different beasts…Ethos wild yeast, barrique, partial mall, lees, etc…its Bobs best expression of Chardonnay. You can probably find on deal at closer to $30-32.
Kris, I used to really enjoy cold creek chard but haven’t had one in decade or so, do you think the ethos is a step up and any recent vintages you would recommend? Thanks.
My favorite is Cold Creek, followed by Ethos. I tend to prefer cooler vintages like '10 and '11.
I think it is different, and not knowing your style preference I’d be hard pressed to tell you, but Ethos is spontaneous ferment, and a blend of Horse Heaven, Canoe Ridge and Cold Creek to a style. It’s very tasty and richer for me, maybe a tad more complex.
Ethos is fine but no way would I pay $30 or so. I’ve purchased it in the past on clearance or close out and I’ve been happy. All of the Ethos line actually.
The Cab and Merlot are my favorite in the Ethos lineup, in that order. Cab is excellent value for $, then again, so is Cold Creek Cab.