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StateWays | www.stateways.com | May/June 2017 51 RETAILER WINE SELECTIONS Headline here RETAILER WINE SELECTIONS Summer Whites For our latest round of National Re- tailer Wine Panel reviews, we asked panelists to rate WHITE WINES perfect for summer. As always, these selec- tions include brief tasting notes, a rating and the wine's retail price (which can vary from store to store and market to market). Unless noted otherwise, the price refl ects a 750-ml. bottle. If you're a beverage professional with a specialty in wine and you're interested in participating in the panel, please contact managing editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz@ epgmediallc.com or 203-855-8499 x2225. (96) J.Lohr Arroyo Vista Chardonnay 2015 (California). Consistently one of the best ex- amples of Monterey chardonnay. Winemaker Kristen Barnhisel puts a decidedly Burgundian spin on this rich, voluptuous wine. A very spe- cifi c French barrel program, weekly stirring of the lees, Dijon 76 clone and other classic techniques shine on the palate. Full-bodied and complex. Peach, vanilla and lemon dominate the nose. ($29.99) (95) 2014 Comelli Friulano (Italy.) From the D.O.C. Friuli Colli Orientali. Formerly called "Tocai," this unique and lovely wine has aro- mas and fl avors of melon, apricot and citrus with a lush honey-like texture. The lengthy fi nish has refreshing acidity and is not quite dry. ($26.99) (95) Kimsey Ballard Canyon White Blend 2014 (California). This delightful blend of roussanne and viognier has gorgeous texture and richness. Classic white peach and citrus blossom notes are balanced by a surprisingly zesty acidity, making it perfect for those warm summer days and nights. ($60) (95) 2014 Comelli Ampuis Pinot Grigio (Italy). In a world bombarded with merely acceptable pinot grigio, this one really stands out! From the I.G.T. Venezia Giulia, it has a rich, mouth-coating texture. There are some fl oral notes and hints of fresh fruit on the bouquet, followed by lively fl avors of apple, under-ripe melon, and citrus. The fi nish is long, crisp and refreshingly dry. A simply wonderful style! ($21.99) (95) 2015 Pierre Jean Sauvignon (France). 100% Sauvignon Blanc from France's south- west and I.G.P. Cotes de Gascogne. It is clas- sically French with lively aromas of wildfl ower, lemongrass, apple and pear with a nuance of fl int. Delicious fl avors of mandarin orange, peach, apple and pear lead to a crisp, long fi nish with racy acidity and more of that fl inty terroir. This wine is an ideal aperitif or will complement (94) Alexander Valley Vineyards Es- tate Chardonnay 2015 (California). AVV's classic estate product. Very con- centrated fruit from this vintage has a touch of viognier to add further richness and complexity. Night harvesting, whole cluster pressing and a unique program of separate fermentation in stainless steel and French oak results in a beautifully blended and balanced wine. Floral, rich and creamy, with beautiful notes of pine- apple, pear and apple. One of the best ex- amples of the legendary Alexander Valley fruit. ($21.99)