I was blown away by the 2017 Chardonnay Upper Barn Vineyard, one of the finest Chardonnays in this report. Coming from the oldest estate vines on the Alexander Valley site, planted in 1982, and aged 11 months in 50% new French oak, it leads with an incredible bouquet of pineapple, white flowers, crushed rocks, and spice. With medium to full body, high yet integrated acidity, a thrilling texture, and a great, great finish, this is pure class and a remarkable effort from this estate. It’s drinking brilliantly today yet I suspect has the class to evolve for over a decade.

The 2017 Chardonnay Upper Barn Vineyard is a wonderfully complete wine that melds fruit intensity and structure. Apricot, tangerine, pineapple, mint and lightly buttered notes give the Upper Barn a slightly richer flavor profile to match its oily, textured feel. Floral notes appear later, adding lift to round out this superb Chardonnay from Stonestreet.

Minerally freshness accents the structured Gala apple and white cherry flavors, backed by a zesty core of acidity. Savory hints and lemon drop notes show on the finish. Drink now through 2025. 835 cases made.