The 2008 vintage in Edna Valley was fantastic, and it shows on this bright, value-priced Chardonnay.

Warm days, cool nights and steady but mild winds helped the grapes develop fully but slowly. Partial barrel fermentation, partial malo and extended lees contact give this wine an incredible texture with plenty of acidity to keep it food friendly. It tends toward the tropical, with pineapple, guava and peach aromas and flavors touched off by Tahitian vanilla, cinnamon and clove spice with a streak of minerality. A lot of complexity for a $15 bottle.