The top value is the excellent 2008 Chardonnay Overlook, 75% of which is accessed from Sonoma and 25% from Santa Barbara. Its medium straw/green color is followed by notes of poached pears, cloves, white currants, and nectarines, pure fruit, medium to full body, and a good finish. It should drink well for 2-3 years. Winemaker Eric Stern judiciously uses wood as a complementary seasoning, which is evident in all these Chardonnays.

Yellow-gold. Musky aromas of ripe pear, peach and pineapple; a real fruit cocktail on the nose. Round but dry, with lush pit fruit and melon flavors and a touch of sweetness. Fairly straightforward chardonnay with good finishing breadth and gently sweet persistence.