Kelly Fleming, Sauvignon Blanc, Oakville, 2007

In a blind tasting I would have been stumped by the Kelly Fleming Sauvignon Blanc, Oakville 2007, as it borders on a Chardonnay; only the slightly bracing finish gives away the varietal. The color of straw with a green hue, the light nose shows pear and slightly vegetal notes. The attack is soft, developing into sweet fruit, then a slightly heavy roundness, with good acidity bordering on bitter, and a medium finish. The 25% to 50% new French oak distorts the varietal character - the wine succumbs to the common "oak" mistake of "more is better", it would have been much better aged strictly in steel. Score 13/20, drink now + 3 years.