Located in the Santa Ynez valley, this attractive winery has had a mixed track record since its debut vintage in the mid-eighties. However, under the increasingly inspired winemaking helm of Rick Longoria, Gainey has begun to exploit its considerable potential. Vintages in the nineties, including unreleased barrel samples of their 1992s, should make Gainey Vineyard a more noteworthy competitor at the top end of the fine wine market. While Gainey also produces two cuvees of Chardonnay, in 1991 they did not make a Limited Selection. The 1991 Chardonnay (regular bottling) is closed, although it does reveal some toasty, spicy oak in the nose. Lean, with medium body and an austere personality, this is a straightforward Chardonnay for drinking over the next several years. At a time when too many wineries appear to be asleep at the wheel and are content to maintain their status quo, Gainey Vineyard is making major strides in quality. Tel. (805) 688-0558