Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Chardonnay, 2017

 As the second wine in the AWS/Taster's Guild event, Chateau Montelena's Napa Chardonnay was a worthy followup to the Baumard Savennieres, although a totally different style. It was aged for 10 months in 100% French oak barrels but still preserves a strong expression of the Chardonnay grapes, grown on what was once an ocean terrace near the base of what is now Mount Veeder.

Lighter in color than the Savennieres. Bright and lively. Fruit and oak are beautifully integrated. Stone fruit, lime, flowers. Firm and vigorous on the palate with great fruit definition and a long finish.

The 1973 Montelena Chardonnay was the wine that outscored some prestigious white Burgundies at the 1976 Judgment of Paris. On that alone, the wine has earned a premium price ($74.99 retail, $46.59 for those attending the event). What's relevant, of course, is what's in the bottle in the 2017 vintage. And there is no question that this is a classic Napa Chardonnay, respecting the traditions of the estate and the appellation.