Once again, this year’s chardonnay comes from one of Lee Martinelli’s premium vineyards in the heart of the Russian River Valley. There’s no better viticulturist than Lee Martinelli and fruit from the Laughlin Road vineyard is nonpareil. Our 2005 chardonnay, barrel-fermented and aged 10 months in French oak, exemplifies the qualities of this great terroir, an appellation renown for both its red and white burgundies.

Here’s a fruity, good-natured chardonnay, elegant yet playful, with an inviting nose of honeysuckle and vanilla. When chilled, flavors of melon, pineapple, and pear unfold on the palate and then give way to subtle notes of oak and vanilla in the finish. At warmer temperatures, the wine exudes hints of crème brulee, lemon, and honey, flavors that make this wine perfect with entrees such as veal scallipini, chicken piccata, or coquilles St. Jacques. Drink now through 2010.