What Double Gold Winner Chardonnay from Mount Veeder costs under $20?

None you say? Well, how about THIS today!

An older vintage as it may be, we found nothing but terrific youth in the bottle, aging as if frozen in time. The closest match we could come up with is Mayacamas Vineyards for standing the test of time, which is grown just a stone’s throw away, but it would set you back like $80 a pop… which is nowhere near the $18 we somehow were able to get this one down to.

Familiar with the name Godspeed? Seen it on a $100+ label from Sbragia Family who sources from this well-kept secret site? After all, we do have Ed Sbragia of ex-Beringer fame, on record saying “year after year the fruit from Godspeed justifies my passion… There’s an intensity and concentration to the grapes that practically jumps out of the crusher, and with careful handling, this intensity translates to a wine of enormous depth and richness.”

Godspeed Vineyards is the passion project of reputable architect and vintner Larry Stricker at over 1,500 feet elevation. This picturesque site planted in 1987 on steep hillsides with volcanic soils producing small clusters of deeply flavorful grapes is an exemplary terroir for growing classic Napa Valley mountain fruit. Nearby are Lokoya, Anthem, Pott… with so many stunning wines hailing from this appellation, truly the crème de la crème every which way.

In the glass, we have a brilliant straw yellow turning a glimmering white-gold at heart. The nose unfolds with all kinds of exotic citrus (yes, Buddha’s hand too!) along with pear, peach, and distinct mineral notes that undermine the milder oak spice echoes. It’s vibrant with brilliant acidity, juicy honeydew melon, and guava engaging with hints of marzipan, candied ginger, and honeyed toast. Complex as can be, it boasts the perfect profile to elevate a simple Risotto a la Milanese to heavenly heights.

And how is a 2013 still drinking like a dream? The vintage assessment by Wine Spectator for Napa Chardonnay in this vintage will answer that best as it was “an exceptional year, distinct for vibrancy and density; age-worthy.”

When young, it once earned a Double Gold at the American Fine Wine Competition, but with the finesse and bouquet added on by the years, make that a triple!

Have faith Operatives, you just can’t afford to miss this Chardonnay today. Did we say 18 bucks???!!!