"The light gold-hued 2024 Chardonnay Belle De Jour Donnachadh Vineyard is, as far as I can tell, Lato's first release from this organically farmed site along Santa Rosa Road on the southern side of the Sta. Rita Hills. Barrel fermented and aged 16 months in 50% new French oak, it has a pretty, classic Sta. Rita Hills nose of green melon, orchard fruits, crushed stone, white pepper, and white flowers. Incredibly crystalline on the palate, it has medium-bodied richness, remarkable focus, precision, and purity, just about flawless balance, and ample mid-palate volume, with an utterly classic, salty Sta. Rita Hills finish that makes you salivate. It builds with time in the glass, and its overall balance, concentration, and depth are spot on. I love it today, and it should have an easy 10-12 years of longevity. It's another example of the genius of Paul Lato and one of those wines I wish I could put in front of every reader. Drink 2026-2038." Jeb Dunnuck 98JD