A very good value in Chardonnay is the 2007 Santa Maria. Although completely barrel-fermented and put through malolactic, it retains a crisp, elegant style with the wood clearly pushed to the background. Revealing abundant amounts of honeyed citrus along with hints of tropical fruit and crushed rocks, in addition to beautiful freshness and vibrancy, it can be enjoyed over the next several years. Consistent with their Syrah program, Byron’s current releases of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the finest examples I have yet tasted.Tel. (805) 934-4700; Fax (805) 938-1581