I am going out on a big. lush, high note this year with this recommendation.

Vibrant aromas of lime, lemongrass, powdered stone and anise. At once supple and energetic in the mouth, with impressive precision to the peach, citrus and smoky mineral flavors. Tightly wound and taut but not austere, showing a distinct spiciness on the back half. Lively citrus and mineral flavors carry through a rising, spicy finish.

Cinq Cépages is the flagship wine of Chateau St. Jean.

Each year, Winemaker Margo Van Staaveren selects fruit from the finest Bordeaux variety vineyards to craft a wine that showcases the best of Sonoma County. The primary grape sources for the 2006 vintage are Alexander Valley, Knights Valley and Sonoma Valley. The Alexander Valley grapes highlight bright berry with back notes of dried herbs, while the Sonoma Valley fruit is from our home vineyard – the St. Jean Estate Vineyard – and brings black and dense mountain fruit to the blend. The Knights Valley fruit adds boysenberry flavors and elegant tannins.

I did just recommend Etude Pinot Gris, but I had the Chardonnay over the weekend and it was fantastic.

Inviting aromas of nectarine and lemon chiffon begin the nose of this Etude Chardonnay. On the palate, the wine has lively acidity and purity of fruit with flavors of white peach, guava and lime. The striking interplay of minerality, palate weight and length is the wine's hallmark. Apple blossom and spice notes contribute to a long finish.