From one of the oldest vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley, Paul Lato’s superb 2016 Chardonnay le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard reveals attractive aromas of yellow orchard fruit, citrus zest, peach and honeycomb. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, with more textural glossiness than the Belle de Jour, underpinned by bright acids and concluding with an intense, chalky finish. This is quite structurally tight-knit right now and will need a couple of years in the cellar to blossom. - WK

From a great site in the Santa Maria Valley, which is a cool region, the 2016 Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard has slightly more tropical notes with hints of papaya, lemon curd, poached pear, and spice all emerging from the glass. It's a rounded, nicely concentrated, supple Chardonnay that has good acidity and freshness yet the more forward, charming nature of the 2016 vintage front and center. Brought up in 60% new French oak, drink it any time over the coming 7-8 years.

The 2016 Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard is a terrific example of Santa Maria Chardonnay. Lemon peel, white flowers and mint are all finely sketched. Understated and delicate, with striking textural finesse, the 2016 has so much to offer. The bright, chiseled style is undeniably appealing. There is so much to like here. -- Antonio Galloni