Leave it to the Wine Spies to bring you the hottest new trends from the most famous of producers.

You know, Julien Fayard. Yes, THAT Julien Fayard.

He is a true celeb in Napa Valley, hailing from just outside Lyon, France. With a few wine degrees under his belt from UC Davis, he set off to conquer the winemaking scene, starting at Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Smith Haut Lafitte, and others.

Then he landed in Napa Valley.

And the trajectory continued on a hockey stick like path up and to the right. He worked alongside the illustrious Phillipe Melka, producing extraordinary wines from Lail, Vineyard 29, Metisse, Dalla Valle and MANY other high-end producers.

He’s solidified his name among the ranks of the greatest winemakers in the world at this point. And today he focuses primarily on his own ventures - Purlieu , Le Pich and now Les Vins Julien. He still consults too for some of the high end brands in the Valley.

By now there should be no doubt. When he pouts HIS name on a wine, especially front & center - you can bet your bank it will deliver.

And USUALLY that bet banks on those wines delivering heaps of luscious, extracted, powerful, full-throttle hedonism.

Not this time.

The newest project Les Vins Julien focuses specifically on lower alcohol wines. Not de-alcoholed wines but wines made intentionally light and balanced. With lower alcohol levels, the natural acidity and fruitiness of the grapes can showcase more vibrant and complex flavor profiles providing a refreshing taste experience.

This Chardonnay simply HUMS with spirit! And the split of 50/50 in stainless steal and used French oak to balance is key. Insanely aromatic - it almost has a Moscato type vibe, just jiving and jigging with white flowers, tropical honeysuckle, sweet lemon and grapefruit. A kiss of butterscotch and flirty floral, citrus and soft spice get into the mix without making it awkward. A hint of chamomile, orange rind and lemon curd, the texture here is velvety smooth and lifted.

At $25, this may be the last chance to stuff those lockers with it. What Sober October? Moderation rules!