We are making a long weekend trip (3-4 days) to California next Spring in search of new white wines (mostly Chardonnay). Looking for recommendations for regions to stay that will give us the best options for the most white wines. Chard - Prefer low residual sugar when we can find it, and yes buttery (not caramel-y), definitely like the oaky flavor.
We will also be looking for some non dessert white wines as well.
Thanks

Thanks for all the rec's and advice on this question. I would like to keep the price below $25 a bottle. I am making a list from the responses to see what is available in my area (middle TN).

Just saw this thread, must have missed it when I posted the same question an hour ago. Sorry to have asked the same question again. Thanks for the list of other similar threads on Chowhound and the article on ML ferrmentation. We love lots of types of wine, but are very particular about our chards.

Thanks for the reply. We have tried both the KJ and Sonoma Cutrer, we were not very impressed with either. I have tried the AO reds, but not their whites.

I do think that some of the sweet is from fruit, but also was thinking that some of that flavor may be coming from higher alcohol whites?

I am looking for a BIG buttery chardonnay; no stainless, definitley maloactic fermentation. Reminds you of carmel corn when you drink it. We have enjoyed the Chateau St Jean "Belle Terre" and Simi "Alexander Valley" Chards, but I am looking for some other options.

Not a fan of Rombauer, seemed very sweet to me.

Any and all opinions are appreciated.

Thanks

Thanks for the reply. I have had several people recommend Don Giovanni & Bottega.

I have heard of Bistro Jeanty, but never tried it. We will certainly add it to the list of possibles.

Thank you for the ideas. We have been to Mustard's several times as well as Rutherford Grill. I agree with your assessment of both.

I will look into Grace's Table & Oenetri ( we can get loud also;)).

We are headed to Calistoga for a few days in May and are looking for a fun Italian dinner spot. We have dinner plans set for every night but one. Can y'all (yep I'm Southern) help me out with a great spot for a fun, laid back dinner with some great friends.
Thanks

Looks great to me, but their sample menu looks a bit to adventurous for some of the friends I am going to be with.

We will be traveling to Napa in early May, staying in the Calistoga area, and need a few ideas for dinner places. Already planning to eat at CIA-Greystone and Cindy's Backtreet Kitchen. Looking for something laid back, fun and mid priced.
Thanks in advance!