2018 Chalkstone Winery Central Coast, California Chardonnay

Yes, education is extremely important, and the winemaker for Chalkstone earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Enology from California’s Fresno State University, later complemented by a Master of Science degree in Food Science at the University of California at Davis.

All of that “book learning” laid the groundwork for Sam Balakian’s career. But it was the harvests that followed — working alongside growers up and down the state of California, familiarizing himself with countless grape varieties, and making wine in quantities both large and small — that made him one of the Golden State’s most respected vintners.

For the 2018 Chalkstone Chardonnay, Balakian opted for malolactic fermentation (to provide a creamy finish) in stainless steel tanks (to retain a fresh and fruity character). The wine is a delight to drink, the result of outstanding fruit and a man who knows what to do with it.