Pahlmeyer Chardonnay Napa Valley 2015

For more than three decades, the Pahlmeyer family has been perfecting its formula for the quintessential California Chardonnay; ripe fruit fermented and aged in 95 percent new French oak yields an opulent mouthfeel and rich flavors. All the grapes for this wine come from Atlas Peak, Napa’s highest-altitude appellation, where Pahlmeyer’s estate vineyards are located. Elevations range from 1,500 to 2,100 feet, and while most wouldn’t think to plant Chardonnay that high up, the elevation is key to this white’s style. The grapes receive abundant sunshine yet mature slowly, while cool nights lock in the natural acidity.

Tasting Note

This offers a gorgeous mouthful of rich, buttery Chardonnay, loaded with exotic tropical fruit, pear, melon and pineapple flavors. Impressive for its opulence and silkiness, a nice combination. Drink now through 2022.—James Laube