Today’s silky AM/FM 2014 Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay is one elegant, delicious, and fragrant steal of a deal. We don’t show very many Sub-$20 wines around these parts, but this wine delivered so much at such a low price that we had to let you know about it. This wine was made in partnership with Presqu’ile, by Sommelier of the Year winner, Matt Kaner.

This wine was born of a partnership of sorts, between Matt Kaner and the fabled Presqu’ile Winery of Santa Barbara’s Santa Maria Valley. Presqu’ile (pronounced press-KEEL) is a small, family-run winery dedicated to crafting exceptional cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Wines made from Presqu’ile’s certified grapes capture the essence of their vineyards and vintage and have earned acclaim for their elegance and balance.

The color of this wine is where hay in the sunshine meets peridot gemstones. This Chardonnay has an exceptionally perfumed nose of pear, coconut, wheat, sandalwood, and peach. It is very well received on the palate, where flavors of apple, persimmon, vanilla, honeysuckle, and tangerine vie for your attention. It’s got a silken mouthfeel that is gentle around the edges, while still showing up with some bright acids to liven things up. Chardonnay is more versatile than most people give it credit. Try this one with some chile verde tamales - you’ll be pleasantly surprised!