Sequoia Grove Winery, Napa Valley (California) Chardonnay 2020

 Given the massive character of their Cabernet Sauvignon, I expected Sequoia Grove’s Chardonnay to follow in that style, but it doesn’t.  It delivers a balanced package of both richness and restraint.  Good acidity keeps it fresh.  But it’s not so aggressive that you couldn’t enjoy a glass by itself before dinner.  There is a gentleness to it.  Thankfully there’s enough acidity to keep it lively throughout the meal.  A seductively hint of creaminess gives it a lovely texture.  Sequoia Grove seemed to have threaded the needle with this refined Chardonnay.  It delivers far more than expected for the price.