Oliver is an Indiana winery that has gained a reputation for quality wines. Their foundation is firmly in the Hoosier State, but with the Vine Series wines they are spreading their wings.
The Vine Series sources premium California grapes from select growers. Oliver then adds proven Midwest craftsmanship.
We previously tried, and enjoyed, the Dry Red Blend. Also part of the Vine Series is a 2013 Chardonnay.
We uncorked the Oliver Chardonnay as we enjoyed a firepit on the patio. The wine was a good match for the occasion.
The Oliver Chardonnay has an accent on fruit flavors. Unlike many California Chardonnay, there isn’t heavy oaking. Although we don’t have the details of how the wine was finished, this tasted like an unoaked Chardonnay – with a decided freshness.
It’s also a good wine for those who say they don’t like Chardonnay. The heavy style of “butter” and oak of some premium Chardonnay is a turn-off to some. With the Oliver, it is fruit forward enough to sip on its own on a summer’s evening. The alcohol is 12.5%, which is lower than most wines. That means it’s food friendly, too.
This Chardonnay is not complex and can’t compete with a bottle from Napa – but it isn’t meant to. The Oliver Chardonnay aims to deliver an accessible, fun wine. With that as the target, Oliver hits the mark.
Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.
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