CALIFORNIA
CHARDONNAY
95 Sandhi 2017 Bentrock Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills). Chalk, ash and brisk lime aromas show on the nose of this bottling by Raj Parr and Sashi Moorman, which wraps a tight mineral-driven frame around explosive energy. The stony aspects dominate the sip as well, from a chalky texture to a flinty flavor, yet there are also touches of lemon zest and lemongrass. —M.K.
abv: 13% Price: $NA
94 Eden Rift 2017 Reserve Chardonnay (Cienega Valley). Clean and crisp aromas of Asian pear, white melon and underripe pineapple meet with a judicious touch of oak on the nose of this bottling from a ranch that’s been under vine since 1849. There is a great grip to the sip, which is pure and crisp, with chalk, flint and pomelo flavors. —M.K.
abv: 14.2% Price: $65
94 Jayson 2017 Chardonnay (Napa Valley). A thick oak-influenced white wine. with weight and breadth across the palate, this is undeniably delicious and in full possession of its richness and concentration. The layered flavors of stone fruit, pear and nutmeg are lifted by focused acidity that cannot be denied. Editors’ Choice. —V.B.
abv: 14.6% Price: $50
94 Stolo 2017 Hillside Reserve Chardonnay (San Luis Obispo County). Those seeking low-alcohol high-acid extremely taut Chardonnay should look no further than this bottling, which begins with exotic citrus and light daffodil on the nose. The sizzling acidity runs from the front to finish of the sip, where explosive citrus flavors meet with ashy Brie rind and wet gravel flavors. Editors’ Choice. —M.K.
abv: 12% Price: $42
94 Talley 2017 Rosemary’s Chardonnay (Arroyo Grande Valley). Asian pear, Meyer lemon pith, white-melon flesh, sea salt, lime zest and a judicious touch of buttercream all swirl in aromatic harmony on the nose of this bottling. There is a steely grip to the sip, where a chalky structure wraps joyous flavors of lime pith and lemon cream. —M.K.
abv: 13.7% Price: $50
93 Black Sheep Finds 2017 The Joy Fantastic Vineyard Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills). From a vineyard planted in 2014, this bottling shows lively aromas of lemon balm, mint, earthy nuts and a hint of aged cheese on the nose. The palate is strong with flavors of sour lemon, tangerine peel and ash, riding a laser-edge of acidity while trending pleasantly funky. —M.K.
abv: 13.5% Price: $50
This bold, oaky wine is full bodied,
