Made with about one-third malolactic, the 2018 Chardonnay Vintner Select jumps out of the glass with expressive notions of apricot preserves, honeydew melon and green guava with hints of almond croissant, beeswax, honeysuckle and ginger. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating savory goodness and tropical fruit layers, framed with a lovely oiliness to the texture and plenty of freshness, finishing long and spicy. 350 cases produced.

The 2018 Chardonnay Vintner Select, from the Pride estate on Spring Mountain, marries brightness and a wonderful sense of translucency with mountain structure. White flowers, mint, white pepper, tangerine oil and almond all grace a distinctly powerful, phenolic Chardonnay that is best enjoyed at the dinner table.

-- Antonio Galloni

A smaller production cuvee, the 2018 Chardonnay Vintners Select comes all from Sonoma County and offers a slightly more crisp, racy style while still packing plenty of richness and depth. Buttered limes, honeyed citrus, and floral notes all define the bouquet and it’s medium-bodied, has a rounded, mouthfilling texture, terrific balance between its acidity and fruit, and a clean finish. It’s rock solid and should evolve for 3-5 years or so, although there’s no need to hold off.