Monterey’s combination of moderate climate and marine influences from the Pacific Ocean keep the grapes balanced and able to develop fully ripe flavors. A classic Central Coast Chardonnay, this wine offers tropical aromas of grilled pineapple with a hint of lemon zest. Nicely balanced, Hess Chardonnay is medium-bodied with layers of sliced peaches and golden delicious apples, finishing crisp and clean with well-balanced acid. One of the things I enjoy most when I’m visiting with wine drinkers at festivals all around the country is the obvious pleasure people have when they tell me ‘I really love the Hess green label Chardonnay, it’s our house white.’ That means my mission is clear: don’t screw up a good thing. Gladly, this wine makes keeping people happy very easy.