The 2015 Finca de Villatuerta Chardonnay Sobre Lías is a subtle version of the grape, quite elegant and fruit-driven combining flower aromas with notes of white fruit and a balsamic, bay leaf-like touch. Some 20% of the volume fermented and matured in oak barrels where it also matured in contact with the lees for five months. The oak is really integrated in the wine and the palate is lively and fresh, very tasty and pleasant. 30,000 bottles produced.

The 2012 Finca de Villatuerta Chardonnay Sobre Lias combines the flowery, fruity style of Chardonnay with aromas of lees and smoke and balsamic notes of hay, straw and aromatic herbs. The palate has freshness and good weight of fruit, good acidity and clean flavors. A very good Chardonnay. Drink 2014-2016. There are documents dating from the 17th century linking the name Chivite to Navarra wine. Today the winery owns 457 hectares of vineyards in different locations within Navarra and produces a whole range of wines, including the popular Gran Feudo line, which is now a separate company. They also own one of the first single vineyard appellations, Arinzano. The wines are quite classic and nicely-crafted and predominantly use Tempranillo and French grapes, as the Garnacha is destined primarily for rose wines. Importer: Specialty Cellars, Ciudad: Santa Fe Springs, CA; tel. (562) 630-6630; www.specialtycellars.com