From the cool Carneros region comes this chardonnay from well-know chard/pinot specialist, Saintsbury. Purchase in 375ml format from Marketview in Rochester, this is a very fine Chardonnay, exhibiting the ripeness expected from California but with fine balancing acidity. Notes of citrus, and orchard fruit (peach/pear), with a long finish. While fermented and aged in French oak, the influence of the wood is well-judged and minimal. A 750ml bottle can be had for under $20 in the US, making this a very fine value indeed. Tasted Aug 2011.