Sea Smoke, Sta. Rita Hills (Santa Barbara County, California) Chardonnay 2016

 Here is an oak driven Chardonnay that I can love thanks to well-chosen barrels, racy acidity and fruit that’s up to the spice load.  Citrus and spice rule the palate, with notes of honey and nut add depth.  There’s big push to the finish, and a bit of glycol texture help the wine gain length without overheating things.   Go with something smoky for dinner here — a charred white fish or chicken perhaps.