Founded in 2008, Charles & Charles is a Cream-level supergroup collaboration between Food & Wine’s 2009 winemaker of the year Charles Smith, also of K Vinters and Charles Smith Wines, and Charles Bieler of Three Thieves, Bieler Père et Fils and Gotham Project. (Get it? ‘Cause they’re both named Charles? You get it.) The Washington brand currently produces a rosé, a Chardonnay and a Cabernet blend—each with a label as simple as their straightforward vintage list. Their 2013 Chardonnay has a fruity sweet nose and a sip that starts off bold and strong with crisp apples, bright orange blossoms, lively cherries and a subtle bit of peppercorn and other spices. The finish is slightly dry but begs you to bring your glass to your lips again and again.
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