I first visited the Suisun Valley in Solano County, California this past February, enjoying a wonderful meal at Mankas Steakhouse on a small, unassuming corner.  The people are wonderful, and so are the wines. This wine, Sea Sun Chardonnay, is a new offering from Wagner – the owners of the famed Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon. Sea Sun was spotted at Fresh Market for $24.99.  The wine comes from multiple places around California, to include Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Solano Counties.

From the winemaker: A pale straw color with sunshiny highlights, Sea Sun has a subtle nose, with scents of lightly grilled mango, soft butterscotch, juicy red apple, and newly ripened pineapple and apricot. Hints of a springtime meadow, fresh sea air and a trace of smokiness add intriguing layers. Entry on the palate is round and creamy, with flavors of lemon curd and brown spice on the mid-palate. This wine’s fruit flavors, oak, and acidity are seamlessly integrated, with no one element standing out. The finish has a grippy, toasty quality, with notes of cinnamon and lemon squares. A final kick of bright acidity draws you back for another sip.