Grapes From These Vineyards Make California's Top Wines — Here Are 16 Names to Know

"I consider Durell one of Sonoma County’s powerhouse vineyards: its 610 acres (mostly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) sit where Pacific and San Francisco Bay influences meet, with soils ranging from sandy loams to ancient rocky riverbeds and volcanic, iron-rich clay, producing expressive Pinots and intense Chardonnays that attract top producers. Notable examples include the 2022 Three Sticks Chardonnay (lime, grapefruit zest, scintillating acidity), the 2021 Kistler Chardonnay (Golden Delicious apple, poached pear, salty minerality), and the 2021 Gary Farrell Chardonnay (white flowers, quince, bright minerality)." - Ray Isle, Jonathan Cristaldi