2019 Chardonnay Barrique

The Planeta 2019 Sicilia Menfi Chardonnay is a true beauty, and it's incredible to think that as many as 200,000 bottles were produced at this quality. The wine boasts a slightly old-school personality for oak-aged Chardonnay, but it is remarkably vibrant and quick-footed nonetheless. Instead of overt toast or butter, this wine shows all-Sicilian notes of toasted almond and candied fruit. It offers a medium gold color and a lifted, mid-weight texture. Fresh acidy adds sharpness and focus. The Planeta family is doing wonders with Chardonnay (you might also try the fabulous Didacus), and you can't beat this price point.

The sweetly scented 2019 Chardonnay opens up with an alluring bouquet of dusty yellow florals, dried apricot, sage and hints of almond. It boasts oily, glycerol-like textures, lifted by stimulating acids, citrus-tinged orchard fruits and minerals. This is rich and savory with power in reserve, tapering off a bit tropical yet in perfect balance. A salty flourish keeps you coming back to the glass for more.