The first release from I.C. Sam Balderas who has made wines of consistently exceptional quality at Talbott Vineyards for nineteen years shows his meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to traditional winemaking techniques. The 2002 Samantha Starr Chardonnay was produced from grapes grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation. The vineyards relatively close proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates vineyard temperatures resulting in a long, moderate growing season. Here the gravelly, loam soil allows excellent root penetration enabling the vines to pick up sub-soil minerals that increase the complexity of flavor and result in reduced yields. This delicious Chardonnay was stainless steel fermented to retain the pure fruit flavors and aged in French oak barrels for added complexity. Medium straw in color, the nose shows balanced elements of tropical fruits and fresh citrus. On the palate it exhibits ripe bananas, peach and just a hint of toasty oak. The long, crisp finish is soft with sweet yeasty overtones. This is a wonderful, food friendly wine that will pair well with a variety of dishes. metrowinemarketing.com/wines/