The 2011 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills is a pretty, classy effort that offers up scents of apple blossom, citrus, leafy herbs and a touch of oak in its medium-bodied, straightforward profile. Coming from the La Rinconada and Sanford & Benedict vineyard and barrel-fermented and aged 8 months in 25% new French oak, it should drink nicely for 2-3 years.
Tel. (312) 307-1105; www.sanfordwinery.com