Jerry Lohr planted his first Arroyo Seco vines in 1972, eleven years before it became an official wine region. Riverstone Chardonnay followed in 1987. Some things stick around for a reason.

Ripe pineapple, melon and white peach, followed by butter, vanilla and baking spice. Partial malolactic conversion brings the butteriness; up to nine months in American, French and Hungarian oak, with weekly lees stirring, builds that generous texture. Dry, with enough acidity to keep the rich finish firmly on its feet.

Bold but balanced. Oaky without being a plank. Six bottles for those who like their Chardonnay with a bit of swagger.