CALIFORNIA
CHARDONNAY
96 Calera 2017 Chardonnay (Mt. Harlan). For full review see page 95.
abv: 14.5% Price: $50
96 Sanford 2016 La Rinconada Vineyard Estate Grown Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills). For full review see page 96.
abv: 14.5% Price: $48
95 Saintsbury 2017 Sangiacomo Green Acres Chardonnay (Carneros). Floral, earthy and beautifully textured, this vineyard-designated white is structured and balanced. The components are lovingly etched in wet stone, white flower and lemon verbena, lasting and lengthy with spicy texture and impressive weight. —V.B.
abv: 13.9% Price: $54
95 Seabold 2017 Pelio Upper Block Chardonnay (Monterey). Pristine aromas of honeysuckle, white peach, sea salt caramel and sharp citrus make for a delicious entry on the nose of this bottling by Chris Miller. The sip zips with acid and surrounds a chalky texture, delivering flavors of Meyer lemon, grapefruit, pan-seared apple and a touch of mango. Vividly complex and delicious. —M.K.
abv: 13.6% Price: $45
94 Benovia 2016 La Pommeraie Chardonnay (Russian River Valley). For full review see page 97.
abv: 14.5% Price: $50
94 Brewer-Clifton 2017 Machado Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills). Aromas of chamomile, lemon blossom and sweet lime peel meet with an underlying hint of walnut oil and sour cream on the nose of this bottling by Greg Brewer. The palate’s compelling texture is simultaneously oily and chalky, with expertly integrated acidity carrying flavors of peach extract and labneh. —M.K.
abv: NA Price: $55
94 Center of Effort 2015 Giallo Solare Chardonnay (Edna Valley). For full review see page 98.
abv: 14.1% Price: $60
