Cuvaison, Los Carneros – Napa Valley (California) Chardonnay 2021

 The clonal mix really shines in this Steve Rogstad shepherded Chardonnay.  Think “hedonistic” when looking at the proprietary name — it’s on the bold Cali side of the spectrum, with rich oak toast and spice joining lemon creme and baked apple notes.  It finishes crisp for all of its viscosity and weight, and that draws it into a zone where a wide spectrum of drinkers will appreciate it.  Steve describes this as one of his more hands-on wines, and clearly, the hands know what they’re doing.