With streaks of buttery vanilla and a lip-smacking citric finish, this is not your everyday California Chardonnay. Part was fermented in oak and part in stainless steel, which gives the wine a little more restraint. It’s not overblown with fruit and the acidity begs for food, so serve it with appetizers or a meal.
Recommended: 90 points — Becky Sue Epstein
WHAT: 100% chardonnay
WHERE: Sonoma County, California
HOW MUCH: $16 (media sample)