The 2017 Chardonnay Buena Tierra Vineyard conjures up provocative notions of buttered popcorn, crème brûlée and almond tar over a core of poached pears, peach cobbler and guava with a hint of crushed rocks. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers gorgeous tension with an opulent oiliness to the texture and loads of savory-accented stone fruit layers, finishing on a lingering spicy note. This site was planted in 1972 to Old Wente clone selection. The vines are all head-trained and dry-grown.

Crisp yet richly textured, with a firm core of Gala apple and ripe pear flavors, backed by firm acidity. The spicy finish is broad and powerful. Drink now through 2023. 485 cases made.