I'd never even heard of Galen until visiting the Cardinale tasting room. Apparently Galen is yet another label in the Kendall Jackson world, a new label for Chardonnay and Pinot. Tasted the Pinot, and it is nothing to write home about -- Mr. Loring should not be worried about this one.

The chardonnay is quite nice. Very supple, flavors of lemon, fig, papaya, and banana. It has a VERY light touch of oak. Really, an excellent first chardonnay. Finish is full, lasting a good 15-20 seconds on the palate.

This is available at the winery for $30, less any volume discounts (think it was 5 or 10% for six bottles). Keep your eyes open for this one -- its a winner, and we may hear more about it in the next year or two. I have no idea what the production level is on this wine, but if you see it locally, snag a bottle and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.