Hob Nob is always one of those brand that draws in the eye.  It’s a simplistic design, but conveys the wine and what it is succinctly.  2009 Hob Nob Chardonnay suggests a prominently strong flavored Chard in an understated bottle, that sure to get a cracking good time going.  So can it cause clinking, or does it shatter?

Sight:  Deep gold, but vibrant and glitzy in the light.

Smell:  There’s a lot of smoke, butter, popcorn, apple, and caramel.  The fruit isn’t dead, but the tropical fruits are hidden beyond some complexly layered oak.

Sip:  Hello creamy, rich, succulent mouth feel.   There’s a bright bit of acid too, lots of smoke, oak, caramel, and vanilla, with notes of lemon, papaya, and almond.  So round, and smooth.  [A.B.V. 13.5%]

Savor: There’s a bright lemon rock candy burst, before going more lemon pith.  There’s a touch of salty minerality on the end.

Overall, for lovers of creamy and smokey-oaky butter drenched Chard’s, this one’s for you.  It’s close to the $10 mark, but it’s one of the most interesting, and well produced wines that’s been on First Pour Wine in a while.  It’s a shining example of what a well crafted oak experience can do for a wine.

Verdict:  Paula Dean marinated in Lagavulin.
Price: $9.99
France
http://www.hobnobwines.com/