The 2008 Chardonnay Nuits-Blanches is a gorgeous, textured Chardonnay laced with ripe varietal fruit, minerals and French oak. The wine was fermented in barrel and aged for 12 months on its lees in 100% new oak, yet retains striking freshness. The finish is quite beautiful and sculpted. The Nuits-Blanches is made from vineyards in Bien Nacido and Le Bon Climat. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. Jim Clendenen is one of the pioneers of the Central Coast. At their best, his wines capture striking expressions of some of the region’s top sites deeply influenced by a huge passion and admiration for the great wines of Burgundy. Tel. (805) 937-9801; www.aubonclimat.com