2019 Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay, California

Bright, medium yellow with a gold hue, even colour throughout. This has a gentle, coy bouquet, slowly releasing vibrant aromas of pineapple, papaya, Meyer lemon and oak spices, and underlying roasted nuts. Full-bodied, succulent tropical fruit of pineapple, papaya and Meyer lemon packed the palate, seasoned with warming spice, toast and roasted cashew. The fruit is vivid with excellent acidity, brightens the palate and draws a long, juicy line to the finish. Toasted oak melded harmoniously with creaminess provides a round mouthfeel. This is a juicy, tropical-fruited Chardonnay with weight and presence. Match with grilled kingfish and roasted turkey over the next 5 years. Barrel-fermented to 13.5% alc, aged 7 months in French (5% new) and American oak (7% new), aged on lees. 18.5/20 pts

92.5 points raymondchanwinereviews.co.nz

Medium golden colour. Enticing nose of vanilla, honey and dairy products, then the layered fruit aromas began to reveal: ripe peach, pineapple, melon and mango. There is a silky, creamy palate that gives it such adorable personality. The charming fruit flavours balance with the vanilla, toasted oak. All these lovely notes lingers. G.Z.

93 points falstaff.com