The 2017 Charles Ranch Chardonnay takes its time to open on the nose to baked quince and apples, wet hay, charcuterie and stone with hints of white blossoms. The medium-bodied palate is bright and lively with mineral-laced fruits, tangy acidity and a long, toasty finish.

The 2016 Charles Ranch Chardonnay has a youthfully subdued nose of citrus peel, stone and white pit fruits with yeasty hints. Medium-bodied and creamy in the mouth, it gives pure apple and peach fruit with good freshness and a long, textured finish. 130 cases were made.

The 2015 Charles Ranch Chardonnay opens with notes of green guava, white peaches and fresh pineapple with touches of croissant, marzipan and allspice. Medium to full-bodied with bags of savory and tropical characters in the mouth and a lively backbone, it has a satiny texture and great length. 86 cases were made.

The 2014 Charles Ranch Chardonnay offers notes of white peaches, honeysuckle, coriander seed and lightly buttered toast with a waft of orange blossoms. Full-bodied with a seductive oiliness to the texture, this buxom beauty fills the palate with perfumed stone fruit flavors, finishing with great length. Only 112 cases were made.

The three 2012 Chardonnays demonstrate the vintage’s opulence and full-bodied exuberance and richness. From older vines planted in 1982, the 2012 Chardonnay Charles Ranch spent time in 58% new French oak. Gorgeous notes of honeysuckle, white peach, caramelized pear and orange blossoms are followed by a full-bodied, complex, intense Chardonnay that should drink well for 5-7 years.