GoodWines

Oak Leaf Vineyards does not really exist as a vineyard;it also has No Vintage!. It is simply one of the labels produced in The Wine Group’s, Ripon, Calif. wine production facility. Oak Leaf wine is a private label non-vintage wine sold by The Wine Group (the same folks who make box wine) exclusively to Wal-Mart stores. The Wine Group’s other labels include such well known brands as Corbett Canyon, Inglenook, Mogen David, Franzia, Almaden and Glen Ellen wines. The firm recently relocated their operations center from San Francisco to Livermore, California.

Oak Leaf Chardonnay is an ultra-inexpensive wine designed to take on Two Buck Chuck and anyone else. Surprisingly, it is very drinkable, even if could be better— I doubt it could be at its price point! The nose is mild, with pineapple, green apples and a touch of oak; a nice light gold color.  Medium to light bodied with a nice crispness (especially if it is consumed at the right temperature). On the palate, there’s more oak than fruit, with weak pineapple, citrus, pear and apple notes. This Chardonnay has a spicy finish with an acidic bite. The finish is pleasant and lingering.

I think everyone would be surprised to find the Oak Leaf wines as cheap as $3. For its price, Oak Leaf Chardonnay is a truly extraordinary value. It may not be what you take to impress your friends, but it is certainly an unpainful drink! A good B-/C+.