Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery, Sonoma County (California) Chardonnay 2016

 This is a sophisticated Chardonnay from a stellar vintage:  2016 saw winter rains that helped alleviate the drought conditions, the harvest was earlier than usual, and the grapes generally smaller and exceptionally tasty.  Martin Ray Chardonnays are always delicious, but this one seems uniquely elegant.  It is nicely structured, with a crisp texture and reasonable alcohol level (13.8%), all of which makes it a good and versatile food wine.  I’ve enjoyed it a few times recently with a variety of various dishes, including oven-roasted salmon and a creamy spinach risotto.