White Wine

LA CREMA CHARDONNAY MONTEREY 2024 | 750ML

🇺🇸 United States — Chardonnay | Monterey, California

A consistently reliable, cool-climate Chardonnay from one of California’s most focused white wine producers. The nose opens with grilled pineapple, citrus blossom, tangerine, and papaya. On the palate, white peach, key lime, and honeydew melon are complemented by a touch of barrel spice and a river stone minerality. Energetic and well-balanced, with a clean, refreshing finish.

La Crema — whose original name, La Crema Viñera, means “best of the vine” — has focused exclusively on cool-climate appellations since 1979. From its home in the Russian River Valley to Monterey and the Willamette Valley, the winery is committed to producing naturally balanced, site-expressive wines through thorough vineyard selection and boutique winemaking techniques.

90 Points — Wine Enthusiast
“Clean aromas of lemon zest, lime pith and sliced apple show on the nose… The palate is energetic with familiar flavors of Meyer lemon and nectarine.”
— Matt Kettmann. (Vintage 2024). 

Pairs well with: Grilled chicken, seafood, creamy pasta, and soft cheeses.

Grape: Chardonnay
Region: Monterey, California, United States
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml
Score: 90 pts Wine Enthusiast

Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay — California 2023

Kendall-Jackson's Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay is one of the most recognized and beloved white wines in America — a wine that has introduced millions of drinkers to the pleasures of California Chardonnay and remained a benchmark for the style for decades. Sourced from select coastal vineyards across California, where cool marine influence preserves freshness and acidity, the 2023 vintage delivers the rich, fruit-forward profile that has made Vintner's Reserve a perennial favorite. Sustainable and screwcap-sealed for freshness.

The nose is inviting and tropical — pineapple, mango, papaya, and ripe peach, layered with hints of vanilla, honey, and toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is balanced and approachable, with ripe citrus and stone fruit carrying through a creamy, medium-bodied palate. The finish is long and satisfying, with the hallmark Vintner's Reserve richness that makes it as comfortable at a weeknight dinner as it is at a celebration.

One of California's most beloved Chardonnays — sourced from select coastal vineyards and crafted for balance, richness, and enduring approachability.

• Producer: Kendall-Jackson, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: White Wine — Rich, Fruit-Forward, Lightly Oaked
• Certifications: Sustainable • Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pineapple, mango, papaya, ripe peach, citrus, vanilla, honey, toasted oak, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled salmon, lobster, shrimp scampi, roast chicken, creamy pasta, fish tacos, corn on the cob

California's most beloved Chardonnay at an honest price — Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve is the benchmark for what approachable, fruit-forward California white wine can be.

Jean Marc Brocard Chablis Sainte Claire Biodynamic — Chablis, Burgundy 2024

Jean Marc Brocard is one of Chablis' most respected and forward-thinking producers, farming biodynamically across his estate to honor the region's singular Kimmeridgian limestone terroir. Chablis is the northernmost appellation of Burgundy — a place where Chardonnay expresses itself with a precision, purity, and mineral tension found nowhere else in the world. The Sainte Claire is Brocard's entry point into the appellation and a benchmark for what classic Chablis should be: 100% Chardonnay, hand-harvested, naturally fermented with minimal intervention, and vinified without synthetic inputs. Nothing added, nothing taken away — just the wine and its terroir.

The 2024 pours a pale gold with green reflections. The nose opens with lemon, yellow stone fruit, and fresh citrus — clean, precise, and inviting. On the palate, it's wrapped and balanced with a tangy, layered character: Kimmeridgian minerality, crisp acidity, and a clean saline finish that makes it one of the most food-friendly whites in the shop. Serve well chilled and let the terroir do the talking.

"Farming biodynamically to honor the region's singular limestone terroir — hand-harvested, naturally fermented, minimal intervention. The result is a wine that speaks directly of its terroir." — Jean Marc Brocard

• Producer: Jean Marc Brocard, Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic; hand-harvested; no synthetic inputs
• Vinification: Natural fermentation, minimal intervention
• Terroir: Kimmeridgian limestone
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, yellow stone fruit, citrus, Kimmeridgian minerality, crisp acidity, saline finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, clams, grilled sole, plateau de fruits de mer, goat cheese, leek tart, roast chicken with lemon

Classic Chablis from one of the appellation's most committed biodynamic producers — Kimmeridgian limestone, natural fermentation, and the kind of saline precision that makes it irresistible with a glass of oysters.

Hess Select Chardonnay Monterey County 2024 — Monterey County, California

Hess Collection is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estates spanning Napa Valley and beyond. Hess Select is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to quality as their flagship wines but designed for the table. This Monterey County Chardonnay draws from one of California’s premier cool-climate appellations, where Pacific breezes off Monterey Bay preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, producing Chardonnay of genuine character at an honest price.

A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of richness. The nose opens with aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla, leading to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple, with a touch of crème brûlée on the finish — clean, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.

70% stainless, 30% French oak — Monterey freshness with just enough richness to satisfy.

• Producer: Hess Collection (Hess Select), Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Fermentation: 70% stainless steel, 30% French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Grilled pineapple, star fruit, vanilla, sliced peach, golden apple, crème brûlée finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, creamy pasta, Brie, aged cheddar, goat cheese

Consistent, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely well-made — Hess Select Chardonnay is the benchmark for everyday California white.

J. Lohr Estates is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, farming estate vineyards across Monterey, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley. The Riverstone Chardonnay is sourced from the Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County — a cool, wind-swept region ideal for growing Chardonnay with natural freshness and bright acidity. One of California’s best-value Chardonnays, vintage after vintage.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 91 Points | “This full-bodied, round and buttery Chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast, and brown butter. Ripe, soft, and generous.”

Winemaker Description

A fresh, youthful, and textured Chardonnay with flavors and aromas of pear, floral, white peach, citrus, baking spices, and honey. Full-bodied with refreshing acidity and a rich, smooth finish.

Food Pairings

Fresh seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, chicken piccata, grilled chicken, creamy pasta, and triple crème or Humboldt Fog goat cheese. An excellent aperitif.

• Producer: J. Lohr Estates
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, buttery, lightly oaked California Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml

Talbott Kali Hart Chardonnay — Monterey County, California 2024

Named after founder Robb Talbott's daughter, Kali Hart is the estate's most approachable and fruit-forward expression — and one of the most consistent overachievers in California Chardonnay. Grown on Talbott's certified sustainable estate vineyards in Monterey County, where morning fog rolls in off the Pacific and the Santa Lucia Highlands channel cool maritime air through the vines, the 2024 vintage delivers the kind of lush, balanced Chardonnay that earns 90-point scores and Best Buy recognition from Wine Enthusiast year after year. The estate uses 100% recycled irrigation water, solar-offset vineyard power, and a 2:1 industry-leading water-to-wine ratio — sustainability built into every bottle.

The nose opens with vanilla, brioche, ripe Bosc pear, pineapple, tangerine, and melon — generous and inviting, with a cool-climate freshness underneath. On the palate, the wine is smooth and full-bodied with lush tropical fruit, soft texture, and a clean finish with a hint of minerality. It is the kind of Chardonnay that works equally well on a Tuesday night or at a dinner party — effortless, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely delicious.

Wine Enthusiast Best Buy — "Kali Hart delivers ripe tropical fruit, vanilla, and brioche with a smooth, balanced finish. Estate-grown Monterey Chardonnay at its most approachable." (Prior Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Talbott Vineyards, Monterey County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County AVA
• Region: Central Coast, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Certification: Certified California Sustainable (CSWA)
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Vanilla, brioche, Bosc pear, pineapple, tangerine, melon, soft minerality
• Best Paired With: Fish tacos with pineapple salsa, Dungeness crab, seared scallops, roast chicken, Brie

A Best Buy Chardonnay at an honest price — Talbott's Kali Hart is the benchmark for what sustainable, estate-grown Monterey Chardonnay can deliver.

William Fèvre · Chablis Champs Royaux · Chablis AOC · Burgundy · 2024

William Fèvre is one of Chablis’ most storied domaines, farming 37 hectares across the appellation’s most prized exposures on both banks of the Serein river. Champs Royaux — the “Royal Fields” — draws from vineyards rooted in Kimmeridgian limestone, the ancient seabed of oyster fossils and marine sediment that defines Chablis’ signature minerality. Fermented on native yeasts in predominantly stainless steel with full malolactic conversion, this is a textbook expression of the appellation: linear, fresh, and built for the table.

The 2024 opens with a clean, inviting nose of citrus, white fruit, and a whisper of chalk. On the palate, it is fresh and supple — medium-bodied with bright acidity, a subtle mineral thread, and a slightly oaky finish that adds just enough texture without obscuring the wine’s essential freshness. Classic Chablis character at an exceptional price point.

• Producer: William Fèvre
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Chablis AOC, Burgundy, France
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone (oyster fossils & marine sediment)
• Vinification: Native yeasts; 95% stainless steel, 5% old French oak; full malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 10–12 months stainless steel; 5–6 months old French oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, white fruit, crushed chalk, subtle oak, linear mineral finish
• Pairings: Oysters, grilled seafood, chicken in cream sauce, soft cheeses
• Serve: Well-chilled, 44–48°F

Chablis AOC — Kimmeridgian minerality and classic Burgundian precision from one of the appellation’s benchmark estates.

Rombauer Vineyards | Chardonnay | Carneros, Napa Valley | 2024 | 750ml

Few California Chardonnays have achieved what Rombauer has: a style so consistent, so immediately recognizable, and so genuinely crowd-pleasing that it has become a benchmark in its own right. The Carneros bottling is the house's flagship — a wine that delivers ripe fruit intensity, creamy texture, and the signature bright acidity that keeps it from ever feeling heavy.

The 2024 vintage benefited from good winter rain, a moderate spring, and warm September spells that brought optimal ripeness while preserving structure. Sustainable farming throughout, with block-by-block precision guided by NDVI aerial imaging. The result is a wine that is both generous and focused.

On the nose: yellow peach, ripe melon, and bright citrus. On the palate: creamy vanilla, buttery nuance, and a long finish anchored by Rombauer's hallmark acidity. This is the Chardonnay that earns its reputation every vintage.

The Rombauer family authored the Joy of Cooking — they recommend pairing this with their Chicken Risotto or Strawberry Shortcake. Hard to argue.

• Appellation: Carneros, Napa Valley, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Farming: Sustainable, NDVI block-by-block management
• Style: Full-bodied, creamy, oak-influenced
• Pairs with: Lobster with drawn butter, Fettuccine Alfredo, crab cakes, chicken risotto, strawberry shortcake

Cave de Lugny Mâcon-Lugny Les Charmes — Mâconnais, Burgundy, France 2024

Cave de Lugny is one of the largest and most respected cooperative cellars in the Mâconnais — the southern reaches of Burgundy where Chardonnay finds its most approachable, food-friendly, and consistently excellent expression. Founded in 1926, the cooperative brings together growers farming the predominantly limestone plateaus around the village of Lugny, a terroir ideally suited to producing unoaked Chardonnay of genuine character and regional typicity. Les Charmes is Cave de Lugny's flagship single-vineyard cuvée — sourced from the limestone plateau of the same name in the heart of Lugny, a step up in concentration and character from their standard bottlings, and a unique expression of this particular plot in the Mâconnais. Unoaked and vinified to preserve the natural freshness and floral aromatics of the limestone terroir, it is Burgundy Chardonnay at its most versatile and food-friendly — and one of the great white wine values under $20.

The nose is floral and inviting: honey, acacia, and citrus with a freshness that speaks to the limestone soils. On the palate, it is ample and velvety with a spicy edge — generous and textured, yet retaining the bright acidity and freshness that make Mâcon-Lugny such a reliable partner at the table. Unoaked, clean, and incredibly versatile.

"Mâcon-Lugny Les Charmes comes from the predominantly limestone plateau of the same name in the town of Lugny. Ample, velvety, and spicy on the palate with floral and fruity aromas of honey, acacia, and citrus — a unique expression of this particular plot in the Mâconnais." — Cave de Lugny, Winemaker

• Producer: Cave de Lugny, Lugny, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France (est. 1926)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Mâcon-Lugny AOC
• Vineyard: Les Charmes
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Winemaking: Unoaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Honey, acacia, citrus, floral, ample and velvety, spicy edge, fresh finish
• Style: Medium-bodied, unoaked, fresh, food-friendly
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Pan-seared sea bass, garlic shrimp, sushi, roast chicken with lemon and thyme, goat cheese (Chabichou or Selles-sur-Cher), asparagus

Single-vineyard Mâconnais Chardonnay from one of Burgundy's finest cooperatives — Cave de Lugny Les Charmes 2024 s velvety, fresh, and one of the great white wine values under $20.

Sterling Vintner’s Collection Chardonnay Central Coast 2022 — Central Coast, California

Sterling Vineyards is one of California’s most established names, with roots in Napa Valley dating back to 1964. The Vintner’s Collection is Sterling’s approachable everyday tier — sourced from the broad and diverse Central Coast AVA, where a mosaic of cool-climate sub-appellations from Santa Barbara to Monterey produces white wines of genuine freshness and character. Oak barrel aging adds richness and depth without overwhelming the wine’s natural fruit expression.

The 2022 opens with aromas of ripe apple, Asian pear, and cinnamon, with tropical notes of guava and peach. On the palate, flavors of pineapple, peach, and clove are enriched by caramel and spice from oak aging, leading to a mineral-driven finish that adds lift and length. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 89 points, calling it “rich and decadent.”

Wine Enthusiast 89 — “Rich and decadent, with aromas of ripe apple and Asian pear. Pineapple, peach, clove, and a mineral-driven finish.” — Tonya Pitts

• Producer: Sterling Vineyards (Vintner’s Collection), Calistoga, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Central Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Aging: Oak barrel aged
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe apple, Asian pear, guava, peach, pineapple, cinnamon, clove, caramel, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Chicken cacciatore, roast chicken, grilled fish, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

Central Coast Chardonnay with real character — Sterling Vintner’s Collection delivers at an everyday price.

Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay — Sonoma County 2024

Ferrari-Carano has been one of Sonoma County’s most beloved Chardonnay producers for decades, crafting wines of generous richness, depth, and approachability from their estate vineyards across the county’s finest appellations. The 2024 Sonoma County Chardonnay is barrel-fermented to deliver the house’s signature full-bodied, layered style — earning 92 points from James Suckling and representing exceptional value for the quality in the glass. Rich, round, and satisfying, this is California Chardonnay at its most crowd-pleasing.

The nose opens with Meyer lemon, apricot, vanilla, graham cracker, and buttered popcorn — inviting and generous. On the palate, incredible depth and a full mouthfeel deliver layers of ripe peach, pineapple, and caramel, leading to hazelnut and baking spice on the finish. Sweet aromas of vanilla bean and pear blossom add elegance, while a weighty creaminess and flavors of butterscotch and golden apple round out a rich, satisfying finish.

James Suckling 92 — “Sweet aromas of vanilla bean and pear blossoms with a generous mouthfeel, a weighty creaminess and flavors of butterscotch and golden apples. A rich, satisfying, barrel-fermented wine.”

• Producer: Ferrari-Carano, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma County AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Barrel-fermented
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Meyer lemon, apricot, vanilla, peach, pineapple, caramel, butterscotch, hazelnut, baking spice, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled prawns, roast chicken, creamy pasta, dishes with citrus, butter, cream, bacon, or toasted nuts

Decades of Sonoma Chardonnay mastery in every bottle — Ferrari-Carano’s Sonoma County is the rich, crowd-pleasing California white that always delivers.

67 Wine Petit Somm Series® Chardonnay — Central Valley, Chile 2024

The 67 Wine Petit Somm Series® is a passion project from our in-house buyer Oscar Garcia Moncada — a meticulously curated collection of high-quality, value-driven wines that punch well above their price. Each label pays homage to iconic NYC neighborhoods and landmarks, bringing a New York spirit to world-class wine regions. The Chardonnay is sourced from Chile's sun-drenched Central Valley, where the combination of warm days, cool nights, and Andean influence produces fruit of exceptional freshness and character.

The 2024 pours a bright straw with golden highlights. The nose is inviting and aromatic — ripe pear, pineapple, and delicate acacia flowers. On the palate, it's fresh and medium-bodied with a clean, fruit-forward character and distinct notes of exotic fruit on the finish. Crafted for everyday enjoyment without compromise, this is the kind of Chardonnay that makes any weeknight feel like a occasion.

"A meticulously curated collection of high-quality, value-driven wines — each bottle a New York story, every sip a world-class experience." — Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine Buyer

• Curated by: Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine
• Producer: 67 Wine Petit Somm Series®
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Central Valley, Chile
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe pear, pineapple, acacia flowers, exotic fruit finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp tacos, light pasta with cream sauce, fresh goat cheese, mild brie

67 Wine's own label — curated with the same expertise we apply to every bottle on our shelves, priced for every night of the week.

Decoy by Duckhorn — Sonoma County Chardonnay 2024

Decoy is the acclaimed second label of Duckhorn Wine Company, one of Napa Valley's most celebrated producers. Crafted from Sonoma County fruit, the Decoy Chardonnay brings Duckhorn's signature winemaking philosophy — precision, balance, and elegance — to an approachable everyday price point. It is a wine that punches well above its weight: rich and fruit-forward, yet anchored by vibrant acidity and a refined oak touch that adds complexity without heaviness.

The nose is luminous and inviting: ripe tangerine, sweet melon, white peach, and tropical mango mingle with delicate oak spice. On the palate, it is round and full-bodied with juicy citrus zest, pineapple, and orchard fruit flavors, brightened by lively acidity and finishing with a smooth, lingering touch of vanilla and spice. Graceful and satisfying from first sip to last.

"Radiant aromas of ripe tangerine, sweet melon, and tropical mango mingle with delicate oak spice. The palate is round and full, with bright acidity and a supple backbone of sweet oak, layered with notes of juicy mango, pineapple, and a touch of vanilla." — Decoy Winemaker

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-Bodied, Lightly Oaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tangerine, sweet melon, white peach, mango, pineapple, vanilla, creamy oak finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, creamy pasta, buttery seafood, lobster bisque, soft cheeses
• Serve: Chilled, 45–50°F

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price — Decoy Sonoma Chardonnay is the smart pour for any occasion.

Duckhorn Vineyards | Napa Valley Chardonnay | 50th Anniversary | California | 2024

Duckhorn Vineyards was founded in 1976 by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in St. Helena, Napa Valley — and has grown over five decades into one of California's most celebrated and respected fine wine producers. The 2024 Napa Valley Chardonnay marks a milestone: the 50th Anniversary of the winery, a tribute to tradition, excellence, and the enduring vision that has defined Duckhorn since its founding vintage.

Crafted from 100% Chardonnay sourced from Napa Valley vineyards, the wine is made with 40% malolactic fermentation — a deliberate choice that adds a layer of creamy texture and complexity while preserving the bright, fruit-driven freshness that defines the Duckhorn house style. The result is a Chardonnay of genuine balance: rich enough to satisfy, vibrant enough to refresh.

The 2024 opens with inviting aromas of ripe pear, fresh lemongrass, orchard fruit, lemon pith, citrus peel, and a delicate touch of ginger. On the palate, vivid and juicy with medium to full body and crunchy acidity. Vibrant layers of citrus and creamy crème brûlée are accompanied by a subtle hint of salinity that adds depth and intrigue. A silky entry leads to a long, fruit-driven finish where its balanced complexity shines through.

Pair with butter-poached lobster, pan-seared halibut, crab cakes, roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, creamy pasta, Brie, Gruyère, and mild aged Gouda.

• Producer: Duckhorn Vineyards
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA, California, USA
• Grape: Chardonnay (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Vinification: 40% malolactic fermentation
• Closure: Screwcap
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2024

• James Suckling — 92 pts: Fresh orchard fruit, lemon pith, citrus peel and spicy herbs on the nose. Vivid and juicy on the palate with medium to full body and crunchy acidity. Creamy and sleek with a flavorful, fruit-driven finish.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

92 pts — James Suckling: “Ripe yet restrained, this sits on the edge of reduction, showing aromas of yellow apples, grilled peaches, lemon curd and a touch of struck flint. The palate reflects the cool vintage with bright acidity and a layered feel, delivering baked citrus, toasted almonds and subtle spices. Rounded and fresh with a savory, lingering finish. Drink or hold.”

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills’ estate-grown Chardonnay is a singular expression of Napa Valley — biodynamically farmed, and uniquely crafted without malolactic fermentation to preserve its natural, vibrant acidity. The 2023 vintage opens with aromas of sweet lime, fresh lemon, green mango, and white peach, leading to a palate of fresh citrus, star fruit, mango, and a hint of vanilla, all supported by juicy acidity and abundant minerality. The finish is long, layered, and deeply satisfying.

Founded by the legendary Mike Grgich — the winemaker behind the celebrated 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that triumphed at the 1976 Judgment of Paris — Grgich Hills has been a benchmark for Napa Chardonnay for nearly five decades.

• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Farming: Certified biodynamic & organic, estate-grown
• Style: No malolactic fermentation — bright, fresh acidity
• Pairings: Lobster, halibut, roasted chicken, soft cheeses
• 750ml | Serve at 50–54°F | Drink or hold

Olivier Leflaive Les Sétilles — Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy 2023

Olivier Leflaive is one of Burgundy's most respected négociant-éleveurs, founded in 1984 in Puligny-Montrachet by a member of the legendary Leflaive family — one of the most storied names in white Burgundy. The maison specializes in white wines from the Côte de Beaune and is known for sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking. Les Sétilles — named for the small stones found in the vineyards — is the flagship entry-level wine and one of the most consistently praised value Burgundies on the market. While technically labeled as a Bourgogne Blanc, the fruit is sourced primarily from vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault, two of the Côte de Beaune's most celebrated white wine villages. The result is a wine with the DNA of much more expensive village-level Burgundy at a fraction of the price — a genuine insider's choice for those who know.

The nose offers aromas of white flowers, peach, grilled almond, and lemon peel on a mineral-tinged background, with appealing Granny Smith apple and nectarine fruit and a hint of white blossom. The attack is full and warm on the palate, with a surprisingly fresh texture for the vintage — lively acidity driving spicy, bitter citrus through to an elegantly long and lasting finish. Astonishing quality given the volume of production.

Decanter 90 — "Appealing Granny Smith apple and nectarine fruit aroma with a hint of white blossom. Surprisingly fresh texture for the vintage, and an elegantly lovely finish — astonishing quality given the volume of production."

Wine Spectator 90 — "Peach, almond, toasty oak and earth notes highlight this plush white. Backed by lively acidity that drives the spicy, bitter citrus finish. Fine balance and length."

• Producer: Olivier Leflaive, Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bourgogne Blanc AOC
• Fruit Sources: Puligny-Montrachet & Meursault vineyards
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: White flowers, peach, grilled almond, lemon peel, Granny Smith apple, nectarine, mineral, lively acidity, long finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Lobster with drawn butter, seared scallops, grilled fish, roast chicken with tarragon, veal, Brie, aged Comté, light cream pasta

Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault fruit at a Bourgogne Blanc price — Les Sétilles is Burgundy's best-kept secret and one of the great white wine values under $40.

Cambria Estate Winery | Chardonnay Katherine's Vineyard | Santa Maria Valley, California | 2023

Cambria Estate Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's most celebrated producers, farming estate vineyards in the heart of the Santa Maria Valley — one of California's premier cool-climate appellations. Named for Katherine Jackson, Katherine's Vineyard sits at the western end of the valley where persistent Pacific Ocean breezes slow ripening and allow Chardonnay to develop remarkable complexity, balance, and natural acidity.

The 2023 vintage was fermented with 30% stainless steel and 70% barrel, then aged seven months in French oak (20% new) — a winemaking approach that delivers both freshness and texture without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a Chardonnay of genuine balance: ripe tropical and orchard fruit, toasty barrel spice, taut minerality, and mouthwatering acidity that keeps everything in focus.

The nose offers lemon balm, baked apricot, ripe pear, pineapple, and macadamia nut, with honeysuckle and subtle spice. On the palate, medium-bodied and fleshy with a creamy, mouth-coating texture, bright acidity, and a long finish of lemon verbena, fresh ginger, and a hint of marzipan. Serious complexity and impressive finesse, especially at this price point.

Incredibly versatile at the table — exceptional with roast chicken, lobster bisque, pan-seared halibut, creamy pasta, brie, and soft-ripened cheeses.

• Producer: Cambria Estate Winery
• Vineyard: Katherine's Vineyard
• Appellation: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Vinification: 30% stainless steel, 70% barrel; 7 months French oak (20% new)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

• Vinous — 92 pts: Rich yet energized, driven by taut minerality and juicy acidity. Barrel spice and ripe orchard fruit marry in harmony, with serious complexity, deep minerality and impressive finesse, especially for the price.
• Wine Enthusiast — 92 pts: Lemon balm, baked apricot and macadamia nut aromas. A blast of acidity cuts into the lightly salted core of pear, apple and citrus peel flavors, with a warm oak note carrying the finish.
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: Ripe stone and orchard fruits intermixed with honeysuckle and subtle spice. Medium-bodied, plush, round, and supple. A well-made, ready-to-drink California Chardonnay that delivers terrific value.
• Wine Spectator — 90 pts: Remarkable seamlessness and complexity — lemon blossoms, orange sherbet, papaya and marmalade, with a fresh thread of acidity and notes of lemon verbena, fresh ginger, and a hint of marzipan.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Debra, California Chardonnay Buyer — "This fleshy, medium-bodied wine offers plentiful flavors of tropical fruit, baking spice, and zest, with an underlying subtle oak influence. Harmoniously balanced with ample acidity and a buttery, creamy, mouth-coating finish."

Chateau Ste. Michelle | Chardonnay | Columbia Valley, Washington State | 2024

Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington State's founding winery and most iconic producer, with a history stretching back to 1934. Based in Woodinville, the winery has been instrumental in establishing the Columbia Valley as one of America's premier wine regions — and their Columbia Valley Chardonnay remains one of the most consistent and best-value expressions of Washington State white wine available anywhere.

The Columbia Valley AVA is one of the largest and most diverse wine regions in the United States, stretching across eastern Washington. Its continental climate — with long, sunny days, cool nights, and low rainfall — allows Chardonnay to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity and freshness. Grapes are sourced from vineyards throughout the valley, blended to create a wine of complexity and consistency vintage after vintage.

The 2024 is crafted in a fresh, soft style with 50% of the wine aged sur lie for five months in a mix of neutral oak and 5% new oak, while the remaining 50% is fermented in stainless steel — a winemaking approach that delivers both texture and brightness. The result is a Chardonnay of genuine balance: juicy apple and sweet citrus fruit character, complemented by subtle spice and oak nuances, with a clean, food-friendly finish.

Incredibly versatile at the table — pair with roast chicken, grilled fish, pasta with cream sauce, seafood risotto, brie, and soft-ripened cheeses.

• Producer: Chateau Ste. Michelle
• Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington State, USA
• Grape: Chardonnay (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Vinification: 50% sur lie in neutral/5% new oak (5 months); 50% stainless steel
• Bottle Size: 750ml

  Frank Family Vineyards Chardonnay Napa Valley 2024 — Carneros, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated estates, founded in 1992 by Rich Frank — former president of Disney Studios — with a singular focus on producing benchmark Napa wines. Their Carneros Chardonnay is a perennial critical favorite, sourced from one of Napa Valley’s most prized appellations for the variety. Carneros, situated at the southern end of the valley just north of San Pablo Bay, is defined by cool maritime breezes, morning fog, and clay-rich soils that produce Chardonnay of exceptional balance between richness and acidity.

The 2024 leads with zesty lemon and guava aromas tempered by notes of vanilla and caramel-covered apples. On the palate, delicious layers of nutmeg and crème brûlée seamlessly combine with hints of toasted oak and elegant waves of fresh acidity, leading to a bright, lingering finish. James Suckling awarded it 92 points, calling it “a very generous, luscious and focused Chardonnay — well made, poised and stylish.”

James Suckling 92 — “A very generous, luscious and focused Chardonnay with a good core of fruit and spices, bright acidity and a textural, rounded mouthfeel.”

• Producer: Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, Napa Valley (est. 1992)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA (Carneros)
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, guava, vanilla, caramel apple, nutmeg, crème brûlée, toasted oak, bright acidity, lingering finish
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, lobster, crab, creamy pasta, brie, light butter and cream sauces

Carneros Chardonnay at its most poised — Frank Family delivers richness, elegance, and Napa Valley terroir in every glass.

Simonnet-Febvre Chablis 2023 | Chardonnay | Chablis, Burgundy | 750ml

Simonnet-Febvre is one of Chablis' oldest and most respected négociants, with roots going back to 1840. Their Chablis is a benchmark expression of the appellation — unoaked, precise, and unmistakably mineral, shaped by the region's famous Kimmeridgian limestone soils packed with ancient marine fossils. This is Chardonnay stripped of all artifice: no oak, no butter, no softening. Just the pure, stony soul of Chablis.

The 2023 vintage opens with a lovely golden shimmer and green reflections. The nose is rich and complex — subtle floral notes, white peach, yellow plum, and that signature mineral undercurrent that only Chablis can deliver. On the palate, it's structured and harmonious, with bright acidity, chardonnay-typical fruit, and an excellent aromatic persistence through the finish.

Wine Spectator 89 Points — "An elegant style, this white evokes white peach, yellow plum and floral aromas and flavors, with fine harmony and expression. Approachable now, leaving a fresh, appealing finish."

• Appellation: Chablis, Burgundy, France
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Unoaked, mineral-driven white
• Score: Wine Spectator 89 pts
• Best With: Oysters, shellfish, grilled fish, goat cheese, sushi

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2023 — Sonoma Coast, California

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards has been one of Sonoma Coast’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers since 1987, when Steve MacRostie began crafting wines that prioritized site expression over winemaking intervention. The Sonoma Coast AVA — with its cool Pacific-influenced climate, morning fog, and well-drained hillside soils — is one of California’s premier addresses for Chardonnay, producing wines with the kind of natural acidity and aromatic complexity that sets them apart from warmer inland bottlings.

The 2023 opens with beautiful aromas of tropical fruit, melon, and perfumed lemon mingling with hints of slate, wet chalk, and intriguing floral notes of jasmine and orange blossom. On the velvety palate, pineapple and guava give way to layers of stone fruit, Key lime pie, Asian pear, and yellow apple, all flowing to a long, luxurious finish. James Suckling awarded it 90 points, noting “plenty of ripe, succulent fruit on a full body and a smooth, rounded texture.”

James Suckling 90 — “Applesauce, pineapple, brown butter and vanilla bean flavors give ample richness.”

• Producer: MacRostie Winery and Vineyards, Sonoma Coast, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Closure: Screwcap
• Farming: Sustainable
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, melon, lemon, jasmine, orange blossom, pineapple, guava, stone fruit, Key lime, Asian pear, brown butter, vanilla
• Best Paired With: Grilled halibut, lobster bisque, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, crab cakes

Sonoma Coast Chardonnay at its most expressive — MacRostie delivers complexity and elegance at an honest price.

Expert Review — Vintage 2024

James Suckling 93 Points | A ripe but balanced wine with plenty of golden apple and Bartlett pear flavors on a smooth, buttery texture. Some green apple acidity brightens up the ripeness, lifting vanilla bean, toast, and butterscotch nuances. Full-bodied.

Winemaker Description

Decoy Limited represents the elevated tier of the Decoy lineup — where the standard Decoy Chardonnay draws from across California, the Limited label focuses strictly on the cooler maritime vineyards of the Sonoma Coast, delivering more precision, depth, and structural complexity. The 2024 growing season brought a cool, wet winter and moderate spring, with harvest beginning mid-September. Strategic leafing and crop adjustments yielded white wines with fresh aromatics and lively acidity.

Food Pairings

Dungeness crab with drawn butter, lobster rolls, seared scallops, roasted chicken with cream-and-mushroom sauce, Fettuccine Alfredo, roasted squash with sage butter, and truffle mushroom risotto.

Jean Loron Château de Mirande Mâcon-Villages — Burgundy 2023

Jean Loron is one of Burgundy’s most respected négociant-éleveurs, with roots in the Mâconnais stretching back generations. The Château de Mirande Mâcon-Villages is a textbook expression of what this southern Burgundy appellation does best — pure, unoaked Chardonnay of genuine depth and freshness, sourced from vines averaging forty years of age. Aged for six months on the lees without any oak contact, the wine develops natural richness, structure, and complexity while preserving the bright, citrus-driven character that defines great Mâcon-Villages. An outstanding value in White Burgundy.

The nose is open and intense: citrus fruits, ripe pear, and a hint of butter. On the palate, it is juicy and full — the forty-year-old vines deliver genuine depth and concentration, while the lees aging adds a creamy, textured mid-palate. The finish is long, crisp, and refreshing, with a clean mineral precision that invites another glass.

67 Wine — “Château de Mirande is the Mâcon-Villages that reminds you why White Burgundy became famous — pure Chardonnay, old vines, and six months on the lees. Unoaked, honest, and delicious.”

• Producer: Jean Loron, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Mâcon-Villages AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vine Age: 40 years average
• Aging: 6 months on lees, unoaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, ripe pear, butter, creamy mid-palate, crisp mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, oysters, roast chicken, goat cheese, creamy pasta, charcuterie

Forty-year-old vines, six months on lees, zero oak — Jean Loron’s Château de Mirande is Mâcon-Villages at its most honest and compelling.

Winemaker Description 

Frontera Chardonay is a full-bodied white wine with a smooth, creamy texture. It has a bright golden hue and a nose of ripe apples, pears, and tropical fruits. On the palate, it has a rich, buttery flavor with notes of citrus, honey, and vanilla. 

The finish is long and lingering, with a hint of oak. This Chardonay is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a special occasion. It pairs well with seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses. Its smooth texture and balanced flavor make it a great choice for sipping on its own. 

Tasting Notes: Frontera Chardonay has a bright golden hue and a nose of ripe apples, pears, and tropical fruits. On the palate, it has a rich, buttery flavor with notes of citrus, honey, and vanilla. The finish is long and lingering, with a hint of oak.

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is California’s most trusted everyday wine brand, crafted in the tradition of Robert Mondavi’s commitment to quality and approachability. This 1.5L Magnum — equivalent to two standard bottles — is the perfect format for entertaining, parties, and casual gatherings.

Tasting Notes

Vibrant aromas and flavors of pear, apple, peach, oak, and toast. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and a rich, toasty finish. Approachable and food-friendly.

Food Pairings

Light appetizers, grilled chicken, pasta with cream sauce, seafood, and soft cheeses. A versatile everyday Chardonnay for any occasion.

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
• Appellation: California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Medium-bodied, lightly oaked California Chardonnay
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)

Gato Negro | Chardonnay | Valle Central, Chile

Gato Negro is one of Chile's most recognized everyday wine brands, produced by Viña San Pedro — one of the country's largest and most established wineries with roots dating back to 1865. The Black Cat label has earned a loyal following worldwide for delivering consistent, fruit-forward wines at an unbeatable price point.

Valle Central is Chile's most productive wine region, stretching through the heart of the country between the Andes and the Coastal Range. The warm, dry climate and fertile soils are ideal for growing Chardonnay that is ripe, generous, and approachable — with the natural freshness that Chilean whites are known for.

Gato Negro Chardonnay is a textbook example of New World Chardonnay done right. Pale gold in the glass with an inviting nose of banana, ripe peach, and pineapple. On the palate, soft and easy-drinking with classic tropical fruit character, light body, and a clean, balanced finish. No heavy oak, no fuss — just a fresh, crowd-pleasing white that works as well at a backyard barbecue as it does at the dinner table.

Pair with grilled chicken, light pasta, seafood, soft cheeses, and fresh salads.

• Producer: Gato Negro / Viña San Pedro
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Valle Central, Chile
• Style: Light to medium-bodied white
• Bottle Size: 750ml

DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay — California 2024 750ml

DeLoach Vineyards has been crafting expressive California wines since 1975, with a philosophy rooted in sustainable farming and a commitment to letting the fruit speak. The Heritage Reserve Chardonnay is part of DeLoach’s California Series — a bright, fruit-forward expression that bucks the trend of heavy, oak-driven California whites. Instead, the 2024 focuses on freshness, balance, and approachability, making it an ideal everyday white for a wide range of occasions and cuisines.

The 2024 opens with nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. On the palate, tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya, and mango take center stage, delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long, clean finish that makes this wine as versatile at the table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“Nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. Tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya and mango — delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long finish.” — DeLoach Winemaker

• Producer: DeLoach Vineyards, California, USA (est. 1975)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Bright, fruit-forward, lightly oaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Orange blossom, honeydew melon, pineapple, papaya, mango, bright acidity, long clean finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, light pasta, soft cheeses, Asian-inspired dishes, summer salads

Fresh, tropical, and beautifully balanced — DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay 2024 is California sunshine in a glass at an exceptional price.

Matchbook Wine Company | Chardonnay Estate Bottled | Dunnigan Hills | 2023

Dunnigan Hills is one of California's best-kept secrets — a warm, inland appellation in Yolo County where Matchbook has farmed estate vineyards for decades. The combination of hot days, cool nights, and well-drained soils produces Chardonnay with a distinctive personality: tropical fruit richness balanced by genuine freshness. This estate-bottled 2023 is a signature expression of that terroir, blended with a small addition of Verdejo that lifts the wine with a bright thread of minerality. In the cellar, 60% malolactic fermentation adds a creamy, supple texture and a whisper of butterscotch, while careful oak aging layers in vanilla without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a plump, satisfying Chardonnay with a crisp, lingering finish — classic California golden straw in the glass, and a mouthful of pineapple, mango, and melon on the palate.

• Appellation: Dunnigan Hills, Yolo County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay with a touch of Verdejo
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• MLF: 60% malolactic fermentation
• Style: Tropical, creamy, fruit-forward with a crisp finish

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast — Tonya Pitts | 89 Points: Lush, with aromas of white peach, nectarine, Golden Delicious apple, pineapple, creamy vanilla, and clove, and supple mineral notes on the finish.

Tasting Notes

Pineapple, mango, melon, white peach, and nectarine on the nose. Creamy mid-palate with butterscotch and vanilla from oak aging, brightened by a lift of minerality from the Verdejo. Plump mouthfeel with a crisp, fresh fruit finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roast chicken with herb butter, turkey, or creamy pasta dishes.
• Seafood: Grilled lobster, shrimp scampi, or pan-seared halibut.
• Cheese: Brie, Gruyère, or a mild aged cheddar.

Buehler Vineyards Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2022

A family-owned estate established in 1978, Buehler Vineyards has quietly built one of California’s most respected reputations for quality and value — wines that consistently overdeliver at their price points, vintage after vintage. Their Russian River Valley Chardonnay is a standout expression of cool-climate winemaking from one of Sonoma’s most celebrated appellations, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean and morning fog creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay of genuine elegance and complexity.

Crafted from two exceptional vineyard sources — Wood Vineyard on River Road and River Vineyard on East Side Road — the blend brings together the floral, mineral, and lime character of River Vineyard with the lush peach and apricot richness of Wood Vineyard. Sur-lie aging adds toasty brioche and graham cracker notes with a creamy, velvet-textured mouthfeel that elevates the wine well above its price point.

Abundant floral and stone fruit aromas on the nose. The palate is plush and smooth — lemon meringue, peach preserves, grilled pineapple, and subtle spice — with toasty brioche richness, bright natural acidity, and a long, clean finish with marmalade and spice accents.

Wine Spectator — 88 Points

“Lemon meringue, peach preserves and grilled pineapple mingle with spice, toasted brioche and marmalade notes on a plump and smooth frame.”

Food Pairings

Roasted chicken, lobster with butter, grilled halibut, creamy pasta, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma County, California
Vintage: 2022
Aging: Sur-lie
Format: 750ml
Score: 88 pts Wine Spectator

Louis Latour | Mâcon-Lugny Les Genièvres | Mâconnais, Burgundy, France | 2024 | 375ml Half Bottle

Maison Louis Latour is one of Burgundy's most storied and respected negociants, family-owned and independent since 1797. With the largest holding of Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte d'Or and a winemaking heritage stretching back to the 17th century, Louis Latour has built a global reputation for producing wines that faithfully express the character of Burgundy's diverse terroir — from the grandest Grands Crus to the most approachable village wines.

Mâcon-Lugny is one of the Mâconnais's most reliable appellations, situated in southern Burgundy where the climate is warmer and sunnier than the Côte d'Or. Les Genièvres is Louis Latour's benchmark Mâcon-Lugny — a consistently excellent, food-friendly Chardonnay that delivers genuine Burgundian character at an accessible price point.

The 2024 is clean and lively with a flowery bouquet. The nose offers white flowers, honey, ripe apple, and a hint of hazelnut. On the palate, fresh and well-balanced with bright acidity, gentle fruit, and a clean, nutty finish. An effortlessly enjoyable white Burgundy — now in a convenient 375ml half bottle, perfect for solo enjoyment or as a pairing for a single course.

Pair with grilled fish, seafood, scallops, light pasta, and Comté cheese.

• Producer: Maison Louis Latour
• Appellation: Mâcon-Lugny AOC, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
• Cuvée: Les Genièvres
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle

Critical Acclaim - Prior Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 90 pts: Clean and lively with a flowery bouquet and lovely honey, apple, and nutty flavors on the palate.

Lindeman's Bright Chardonnay Bin 65 — South Eastern Australia 2024

Lindeman's is one of Australia's most storied wine producers, with a winemaking heritage stretching back to 1843. The Bin 65 Chardonnay is their flagship white — a wine that has introduced millions of drinkers to the approachable, fruit-forward style that Australian Chardonnay does so well. Sourced from premium vineyards across South Eastern Australia, it is crafted for immediate enjoyment: soft, smooth, and consistently reliable vintage after vintage.

The nose offers inviting aromas of ripe melon, white peach, and a touch of citrus. On the palate, it is medium-to-full bodied with a soft, creamy texture, gentle spice hints, and a long, balanced finish. Clean and crowd-pleasing, it is the kind of everyday Chardonnay that over-delivers at its price point.

"A delightful medium-to-full bodied Chardonnay with excellent varietal flavors of melon and peach. The palate is soft and smooth with spice hints across the long, balanced finish." — Lindeman's Winemaker

• Producer: Lindeman's, South Eastern Australia
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: South Eastern Australia
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Medium-to-Full Bodied, Unoaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Melon, white peach, citrus, soft spice, creamy finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Best Paired With: Grilled chicken, seafood pasta, soft cheeses, Caesar salad, light cream sauces
• Serve: Well chilled, 45–50°F

Australia's best-selling Chardonnay for good reason — Lindeman's Bin 65 is the benchmark for approachable, everyday white wine value.

Joel Gott | California | Unoaked Chardonnay | 2023

Joel Gott's answer to the heavy, buttery California Chardonnay: 100% stainless steel fermentation that preserves every bit of the grape's natural brightness and tropical acidity. No oak, no malolactic softening — just clean, vivid fruit and crisp minerality from start to finish. The 2023 is the go-to for Chardonnay lovers who want freshness over richness, and for those who've been burned by over-oaked whites before.

Fermentation: 100% stainless steel, unoaked
Closure: Screwcap
Drink: Now–2026

Tasting Notes

• Pear, sweet-tart apple, and mango on the nose
• Citrus and honeysuckle aromatics
• Bright fruit entry | Crisp minerality on the mid-palate | Long, clean finish

Pairings: Grilled fish, shrimp, light salads, goat cheese, sushi

Diatom Chardonnay — Santa Barbara County 2024

Greg Brewer's Diatom project is built on a single, radical idea: subtraction. No oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. No extended aging. Just 100% Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County, fermented and aged six months in stainless steel, stripped of everything that typically softens, butters, or blurs the grape. What remains is electric — a wine that tastes like the soil and the sea. The name itself is a clue: diatomaceous earth, the plankton fossil-rich geology beneath Santa Barbara's vineyards, is the terroir this wine is designed to express. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 94 points and called it "a no-brainer purchase." Wine Spectator followed at 93, James Suckling at 93, Wine Enthusiast at 92, and Wine Advocate at 90. Across the board, the verdict is the same: this is one of California's most precise and honest Chardonnays.

The nose is vivid and pure: exotic citrus, minty herbs, oyster shell, honeydew rind, lime candy, and a whisper of sea spray. On the palate, it is sleek and taut — ripe pear, ginger, pomelo, and brisk lime zest coiled around a mouthwatering thread of acidity. Salinity and minerals run through the finish alongside springtime blossoms and a lingering kick of melon pith. It gains weight and richness with time in the glass without ever losing its electric freshness.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Wine Spectator 93 • James Suckling 93 • Wine Enthusiast 92 • Wine Advocate 90 — "A no-brainer purchase for those who love Santa Barbara County Chardonnay."

• Producer: Diatom (Greg Brewer), Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and aging — no oak, no malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 6 months, stainless steel
• Style: Unoaked, crisp, mineral-driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, oyster shell, lime zest, sea spray, pear, ginger, pomelo, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled halibut, ceviche, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A 94-point unoaked Chardonnay at an honest price — Diatom is the benchmark for what Santa Barbara Chardonnay can be when nothing gets in the way.

Josh Cellars California Chardonnay — California 2024

Josh Cellars has become one of America's most beloved wine brands — and for good reason. Founded in honor of winemaker Joseph Carr's father Josh, the label is built on a simple philosophy: craft wines that are approachable, delicious, and made with genuine care. The California Chardonnay is their flagship white, sourced from select California vineyards and crafted to strike the perfect balance between bright fruit, subtle oak, and refreshing acidity. No single flavor overpowers another — just a clean, well-made Chardonnay that delivers every time.

The nose exudes aromas of tropical fruits and citrus married with subtle oak notes. On the palate, this is a beautifully balanced wine: bright citrus and honey up front, with hints of juicy peach, lemon oil, and crème brûlée on the mid-palate. Medium-bodied with a smooth, lingering finish — simply delicious and endlessly versatile at the table.

"Crafted with care so that no single flavor overpowers another — this wine is simply delicious." — Josh Cellars Winemaker

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, citrus, honey, peach, lemon oil, crème brûlée, subtle oak
• Style: Medium-bodied, bright acidity, touch of oak
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken with fresh vegetables, butter and herb dishes, soft cheeses, light pasta

California Chardonnay at its most approachable — Josh Cellars delivers bright, balanced, and genuinely delicious every single time.

Winemaker Description 

To impart highlights of vanilla, caramel and nutmeg, Ron barrel fermented and aged 70 percent of the Chardonnay in French and American oak barrels (20 percent new) for eight months. Fermenting the remainder in stainless steel maintained a bright, fresh fruit balance. The resulting wine has ripe pear and pineapple, and mango flavors highlighted by citrus, Granny Smith apple and hints of baking spices.

The Beringer Founders' Estate Chardonnay is the perfect combination of pear, apple and ripe tropical fruit flavors, with a hint of citrus and a classically round mouthfeel. 

Chalk Hill Chardonnay — Sonoma Coast 2024

Since 1972, Chalk Hill has been one of Sonoma County’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers, crafting terroir-driven wines of character, richness, and elegance from the region’s rolling hills. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay draws from premium cool-climate sites — including Russian River Valley and Carneros — to deliver the house’s signature creamy texture alongside the crispness and energy that coastal California does best. The 2024 vintage earned 93 points from James Suckling and represents outstanding value: fruit-forward, opulent, and crowd-pleasing without sacrificing precision.

The nose is bright and inviting: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, toasty oak, and baking spices, with a touch of flinty minerality and nutmeg. On the palate, it is mouth-filling and full-bodied — juicy acidity lifts flavors of white peach and ripe citrus, while partial malolactic fermentation adds a touch of creaminess and depth. The finish is clean, generous, and satisfying.

James Suckling 93 — “Fruit-forward and opulent, showing juicy acidity and flavors of white peaches. A mouth-filling, weighty, full-bodied wine. Generous and satisfying with a big burst of flavor and a clean finish.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Chalk Hill, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Sources: Russian River Valley, Carneros, and Sonoma Coast cool-climate sites
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, white peach, toasty oak, baking spices, flinty minerality, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster rolls, grilled prawns, sea bass, roast chicken, creamy pasta, Brie, young goat cheese

Fifty years of Sonoma Chardonnay expertise at an honest price — Chalk Hill’s Sonoma Coast is the crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.