The Santa Lucia Highlands have become renown for producing Chardonnay as lovely as any region in the world. East-facing hillsides and foothill benches resemble the best sections of the Burgundy Region where Grand Cru or “Great Growth” designated vineyards continue to set the highest standards. Accordingly, the 2017 SLH Chard offers a clean and charming golden complexion as fragrant vanilla and baking spices idle on the nose. A shapely body is framed by smooth acidity delivering pineapple and white peaches to the mid-palate. Hints of brioche, almonds, and apricots coalesce at the periphery and linger on the exquisite finish.