Though known for their vibrant, energetic, sparkling wines, J Vineyards and Winery also produces quite a few stellar still wines, including a selection of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay options.

Always on the lookout for a great Chardonnay, I stumbled across their J Vineyards and Winery Russian River Chardonnay ($30) recently and was as pleased with the still wine as I always am with their bubbles. Fresh and bright, melding with creamy and rich (yes, you can have them all harmoniously combine in the bottle.) The wine opens with apple and lemon blossom, followed by golden apple, tropical banana and mango, toasted spice, fresh cream, and a touch of oak, creating a perfectly balanced, nuanced wine.

Perfect to pair with Thanksgiving, roasted chicken, or creamy cow’s milk cheese.