With a subdued nose, the 2018 Chardonnay Stillwater Creek Vineyard has faint aromas of apples, lemons and soft nutty notes. Medium-bodied, the wine is straightforward and uncomplicated on the palate, leaving me wanting more acidity to frame the expression. It ends with a brisk finish that leaves soft marshmallowy flavors on the palate. Drink sooner than later.

The 2017 Chardonnay Stillwater Creek Vineyard opens to a frame of sweet corn and bruised apple skin in the glass. Medium-bodied, the wine is slightly nutty on the palate, showing signs of aging, and it ends with an expedited and uncomplicated finish. 1,161 cases produced. Drink now and over the next couple of years.

I thought the 2013 Chardonnay Stillwater Creek Vineyard was a good value, and it offers up plenty of green citrus, white flowers and some toasty notes in a medium-bodied, rich, yet clean and classy style. It’s well worth the price of admission and will drink nicely for a couple years.

The only white I was able to taste, the 2011 Chardonnay Stillwater Creek Vineyard is a delicious, well-made and borderline outstanding effort that offers up classy white peach, citrus and hints of almond paste to go with a medium-bodied, juicy and beautifully pure texture. Balanced, clean and hard to resist, it is a rock solid white that will drink nicely over the coming 2-3 years. Drink now-2016. Tel. (425) 481-5502

The 2009 Chardonnay Stillwater Creek Vineyard was aged in 50% new French oak for 10 months. Buttered popcorn, mineral, spiced apple, and pear aromas lead to a concentrated, spicy, nicely proportioned Chardonnay that will drink well for another 4-5 years. Novelty Hill and Stillwater Creek Vineyard are owned by Tom Alberg. The vineyard, located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills (way off the beaten path), was planted in 2000 and has acquired a reputation for the high quality of its fruit. Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com