The nose of the 2018 Stainless Chardonnay opens with open-knit, inviting aromas of apples—green, yellow and red apple skin—with poached pears, baker’s yeast, crushed stone, hazelnut, fresh quince and lime blossoms. It’s light to medium-bodied with a rounded, silky texture and good core of fresh fruits, finishing with lively acidity and lift. I appreciate that this isn’t lean and mean! A balanced, generous stainless style of unoaked Chardonnay.

The 2015 Chardonnay Stainless (aged four months in stainless steel) is a good value that offers clean, classy notes of green herbs and citrus. It tastes more like a Sauvignon Blanc than a chardonnay, but is enjoyable and well made.

The 2013 Chardonnay Stainless (aged 4 months in stainless steel) is crisp and clean, with lively green herbs, citrus blossom and hints of saltiness all emerging from the glass. It’s medium-bodied and balanced, and although slightly straightforward, is certainly a delicious drink. Enjoy bottles over the coming handful of years. Coming from the Edna Valley and leaning heavily toward the fresher, elegant and lightly textured end of the spectrum, these are all noteworthy wines from Chamisal Vineyards. Tel. (805) 541-9463; www.chamisalvineyards.com

A solid value delivering classic Chardonnay aromas and flavors, the 2012 Chardonnay Stainless gives up pretty stone fruits, citrus, brioche and mineral qualities that give way to a medium-bodied, elegantly-styled palate that has ample richness and texture. Showing the richness and texture that’s inherent in the grape, it’s a great example of the variety and should drink nicely for 1-2 years. Drink now-2015. Tel. (805) 541-9463; www.chamisalvineyards.com