West’s Best Wine 2011: Special Occasion

Woodward Canyon 2010 Chardonnay
Elegant white flowers over creamy Meyer lemon, pear, quince, and litchi, touched with brioche and crushed rock. (Washington State; $44)

Suacci Carciere 2008 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay
Spiced apple, quince, hazelnut, and vanilla, punched up a notch with lovely minerality. (Russian River Valley; $42)

Shafer 2009 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay
Fresh acidity backs golden apple, melon, pear, preserved lemon, and florals. (Carneros, Napa Valley; $48)

Villa Creek 2009 "Willow Creek Cuvée"
Another top Grenache blend offers up lush red fruit—baskets of strawberries—with lively acidity. (Paso Robles; $42)

Chehalem 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir
A Pinot that's found it feminine side with fresh raspberries, roses, and bright acidity. (Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley; $59)

Peay 2008 "Les Titans" Syrah
The dark side of Syrah-olive tapenade, black pepper, bacon, and thyme over blueberry. (Sonoma Coast; $47)