Richard Nally

Alois Lageder 2007 HABERLE Pinot Bianco. A single vineyard Pinot Blanc from one of the region's best-known producers, this provides the satisfaction many people hope for in a Chardonnay - juiciness and vibrant, tipe fruit - without being over-rich or cloying, as Chardonnay can sometimes be. The winery claims it would be great with salad or asparagus - two tough summer wine matches - and maybe it would, but I loved its mildly spicy, appley flavor combined with a smoky grilled sausage.