More serious is the 2009 Reserve Chardonnay that saw 90% of the wine aged in French and American oak for 8 months. It offers up a reticent nose with notions of green apple, white peach, and a hint of toast. In the glass it displays a solid core of fruit, savory flavors with moderate depth, and good balance. Drink this very good value over the next 1-2 years. Santa Ema has been a reliable source of value priced wines for a number of years. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; www.tgicimporters.com

Peachy and solid on the nose, with a pinch of oak and white pepper. The palate is generally smooth, with sweet spiced apple and pithy flavors. Banana, pith, vanilla and melon flavors work the finish, which starts out strong then breaks up on the fade.——M.S.(6/1/2011)—— 86