Whilst largely famous for their Pinot Noirs, Raen also make a small amount of absolutely stunning Chardonnay! Every year I taste this wine I'm continually astounded by the juxtaposition of intense, ripe, powerful fruit, but also searing acidity, freshness and resonating vibrancy on the palate. I think what this part of California does that is so special is summed up by the idea of "refrigerated sunlight". The far western parts of the Sonoma Coast are dramatically cooled by the Pacific Ocean all year long. However, despite being very cool, these vineyards are also treated to the long and stable growing season that California allows. The fruit, that is often extremely precious due to consistently low yields in this region, is allowed to hang late into the Fall developing incredible intensity of flavor, whilst retaining that all important acidity. Very limited amounts of this Chardonnay are available.