The 2010 Chardonnay is an attractive, generous white laced with pears, lemon, flowers and a hint of vanillin. Though medium in body, it shows gorgeous persistence and length all the way through to the creamy, enveloping finish. Ferrari-Carano’s Chardonnay remains one of the best values in California Chardonnay. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. Tel. (707) 433-6700

Also screw-cap finished, the 2008 Chardonnay Sonoma exhibits abundant citrus blossom, poached pear, honeysuckle and tropical fruit characteristics in a medium to full-bodied, juicy, pure, heady style. This delicious Chardonnay should drink well for another 1-2 years. While there is a lamentable tendency to call these wines “too commercial,” the fact is the quality is high and there is good availability. I am a sucker for the pure deliciousness of Ferrari-Carano’s offerings and no one could argue that this is not an important reason for drinking wines.Tel. (707) 433-6700; Fax (707) 431-1742

Aromas of orange marmalade, honeyed lemon blossoms, and baked apples emerge from the fruity, medium to full-bodied 2007 Chardonnay. It possesses fresh acidity, a heady finish, and no obvious oak. Drink it over the next 1-3 years. Tel. (707) 433-6700; Fax (707) 431-1742