Now that it’s nearly summer, we can all look forward to the warmer weather and sunshine of the months to come. And what better way to compliment these lovely days ahead than with a nice cool glass of white wine.

Here’s our final segment of recommendations (Check out Parts 1-3 here) for first-class bottles that make an ideal aperitif on a warm evening or can add a little life to Sunday brunch.

Sculpterra 2012 Viognier

Grape(s):  100% Viognier

Region: Paso Robles

Price: 20-25

Review:

A bouquet of pineapple, dried banana, honey dew, and springtime flowers greets the senses. Flavors of tropical fruits, banana, and melon come together with floral and nutty suggestions on the palate. Somewhat round with a welcoming acidity, it’s a very approachable white to wind away a lazy summer afternoon.

Rating: 89

 

Holman Ranch 2010 Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 25-30

Review:

Aromas of citrus fruits, toasty oak, dusty earth, and honey rise up from a glass. The palate unfurls flavors of lemon, lime, and tart peach along with hints of honey and minerals. A very lively Chardonnay, that drinks more like a Chablis than something from Cali, fans of crisp, minerally whites will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 87

Puma Road 2011 Pinot Gris

Grape(s):  100% Pinot Gris

Region: Monterey County

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromatics of tart apple and Asian pear greet the senses.  A sip reveals flavors of green apple and pear with accents of minerals and citrus. A lively, crisp white that’s ideal for fans of bright, refreshing wines. 170 cases made.

Rating: 88

 

Puma Road 2011 SLH Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 15-20

Review:

A bouquet of tropical fruit and creamy oak come together on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of pineapple, mango, and apple along with notes of vanilla. A fairly smooth wine, with ample fruit and nicely integrated vanilla, it’s sure to hit the spot on a warm afternoon. 300 cases produced.

Rating: 88

Puma Road 2011 Reserve SLH Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 45-50

Review:

Aromatics of apple and pear meld with hints of vanilla and sweet spice on the nose. Notes of apple, pear, and pineapple emerge on the palate along with suggestions of orange peal and caramel. Smooth and rich with a nice balance of flavors, fans of Chardonnay will enjoy this bottle even if it’s not summertime. Just 100 cases made.

Rating: 90

Geyser Peak 2012 Sauvignon Blanc

Grape(s): 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Region: California

Price: 10-15

Review:

Aromatics of citrus fruits and honeydew with a grassy suggestion greets the senses.  Flavors of grapefruit, gooseberry, and melon mingle with hints of glass and minerals on the palate.  A crisp, clean white offering a nice balance of flavors, fans of Sauvignon Blancs with ample fruit and a fresh acidity must try this wine.

Rating: 89

 

Geyser Peak 2012 Pinot Grigio

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Grigio

Region: California

Price: 10-15

Review:

Aromas of melon and green apple meld with notes of citrus fruits and minerals on the nose.

A sip delivers flavors of apple, pear, and citrus zest along with a few floral and white spice hints.  It’s a bright, crisp white that’s lively yet approachable.

Rating: 88