As one of the benchmark Chardonnays from California, this 2017 comes from unique blocks of the Hudson and Hyde Vineyards in Napa’s Carneros AVA that have been vintner/winemaker John Konsgaard’s since his first vintage in 1996. The 2017 “The 2017 is superbly energetic and balances acidity, fruit, and minerality at levels of concentration we find awe-inspiring. A significant aspect of the Kongsgaard Chardonnay signature develops in the second year of barrel aging on the lees. This technique, which John imported from Burgundy long ago, sculpts the dazzling finish, which those familiar with Meursault will admire. The Wine Advocate agrees, noting “The 2017 Chardonnay slips sensuously out of the glass with beguiling notions of crème brulee, orange blossoms and lemon curd over a core of apricot tart and pineapple upside down cake plus a waft of marzipan. The full-bodied palate is stacked with exotic fruit and citrus layers, structured by a satiny texture and bold freshness, finishing very, very long.”