Grown at 1800 feet from old vines planted in 1982 on old wente, this brings a mountainous feel with real density of fruit and old-vine depth of flavor, with a laser-like focus under the power. Aromas of grilled lemons, wet stones, orange blossom, salted nuts, lanolin and beeswax. The palate is mid- to full-bodied with a luscious, rounded mouthfeel and a bright line of acidity that cuts through the long, intense finish with a mineral edge. What an excellent chardonnay this is, sourced from an excellent vineyard and quickly becoming one of California’s finest after only three releases under this label. Drink or hold.

From a vineyard situated in the northernmost reaches of the Russian River Valley—one of the region’s warmer enclaves—this Chardonnay is made from Wente Clone vines planted in 2004 on a steep, rocky slope. It was aged 11 months in 60% new French oak and then 5 months in stainless steel before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. The 2024 vintage is juicy and bright, with vibrant acidity and beautifully defined orchard and citrus fruit layered with a subtle kiss of vanilla and ripe pineapple. Lip-smacking tension and a gorgeous saline edge bring energy and focus, while savoury pressed white floral notes add complexity. Vivid, expressive, and mouthwatering, this wine practically calls for a meal—its saline character makes it irresistibly food-friendly. Sphaerics was founded in 2022 by Brian Ball and Laura Jones, a husband-and-wife team of wine industry veterans. The wines are made by Laura, who fine-tuned her Chardonnay and Pinot Noir winemaking skills during a 5-year tenure at Aubert and a stint at Domaine Armand Rousseau. Brian manages the business and sales for Sphaerics.

(95-97 points) he 2024 Chardonnay On Days And Nights is a notable step up from the debut 2023. Russian River intensity comes across in a measured, perfectly calibrated framework that speaks to precise, finessed winemaking but also has a sense of soulfulness. Golden apple, sweet cream, pastry and sea salt layer atop one another in the glass. There’s real cohesion here. I suspect this will be lights-out from bottle. - Billy Norris

From the Russian River, the 2024 Chardonnay On Days And Nights is a bright yellow hue and is vibrant, focused, salty, and bright with lime oils, silky almonds, and crystalline freshness. Full-bodied yet weightless, it combines depth with refreshing acidity and should age beautifully over the next decade plus. Drink 2026-2040.

Sleek and intense, with wonderful power and focus to the lemon sorbet, fresh kumquat and crunchy star fruit flavors, along with an intense minerality of crushed rocks and sea salt. Wild fennel pollen, lemon balm and ginger oil show on the finish. Drink now through 2033. 400 cases made.