Maldonado Parr Vineyard Chardonnay ( 91 Points Wine Spectator)

Lupe Maldonado had been the longtime Vineyard Manager for Peter Newton on Spring Mountain during the time John Kongsgaard was winemaker there. After Maldonado retired, Kongsgaard moved to Luna, where he eventually trained his successor, Abe Schoener, who was then recommended to the Maldonados as their winemaker. A big, rich and unctuous chardonnay, it’s effusive with brilliant aromas of caramel, brown butter, quince, pear, grilled fig, vanilla and subtle hints of almond...There is a persistent finish ending with a touch of vanilla and expansive minerality.

Ripe, juicy, floral pear, honeysuckle, fig and apricot flavors are presented in a smooth, rich style, which gains depth and persistence. Drink now through 2018. Cases made 823.—J.L.