J Vineyards & Winery Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2020

The 2020 Chardonnay Russian River Valley was matured for eight months in about 18% new oak and underwent full malolactic conversion. "Chardonnay picked up less smoke than other varieties," explains head winemaker Nicole Hitchcock. "We harvested the Chardonnay earlier but did not change our winemaking approach. We have our own internal labs, so we were able to run our own analysis for smoke markers." It has layered aromas of quince, white peaches, honey and graham cracker with floral nuances. The medium-bodied palate is creamy and concentrated, with banana-laced flavors and a long, honeyed finish. It has some notable phenolic texture and may show its best in the near term.

A note of vanilla custard and a touch of salted Greek yogurt add a rich and creamy side to the apricot and mango curd flavors. Creamy on the finish, with a note of dried ginger. Drink now. 9,800 cases made.