The current “Vinous Favorite” at $25:
The 2023 Chardonnay Arroyo Vista has a tropical nose of ripe mango, peach and toasty vanilla. It's forward in style but the oak is well integrated, balanced by cooling acids and persistent grip. For a wine at this scale of production, there's a good bit of nuance and a long, bright finish.
And outstanding for the Wine Spectator, too:
Displays a polished, generous mix of lemon sherbet, mandarin orange, pineapple and pear flavors. Details of lemongrass, apricot and spices linger on the long, juicy finish, along with a touch of honeysuckle.
And 92 from Suckling:
Grilled nuts, buttered corn and apple crumble on the nose. It’s rich and buttery with a full body and excellent intensitjy. Toasty and intense finish. Drink now.
