There’s a good reason why Chardonnay is everyone’s favorite white wine: flavor. Winemaker Jennifer Wall gets grapes from different parts of California to blend a wine that is balanced in flavor, body and mouthfeel.

Honey and vanilla lace through flavors of green apples and peaches. Creamy and delicious.

Proximity to the Pacific Ocean gives Monterey County the cool, foggy climate that is ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes. Typically, bud break begins several weeks earlier and harvest ends several weeks later in Monterey County than in other Central Coast growing regions. This extra month of time on the vine allows the grapes to develop a crisp, bright acidity and lush tropical flavors. Monterey County houses the significant Monterey AVA, which includes nine sub-regions, united by the cooling influence of Monterey Bay.

Juicy tropical flavors mixed with hints of vanilla and spice. Flavors of lush pineapple, mango and tart pippin apple give way to clover honey and toasted sugar notes.

Dancing Bull winemakers like their white wines “racy,” and here’s a Chardonnay that proves the point. They get their fruit from Monterey County, just inside the Coastal Range from the ocean, and the cool climate shines through in the wine. A little Sauvignon Blanc in the blend sharpens it up, too.

Good balance and structure, with bright fruit tending toward citrus and apple. Notice the nice round note of tropical fruits. Put it alongside some good Mexican food.