John McDonald December 19, 2020 Christmas comes but once a year. When it does, I’m glad it’s here. This year, in an effort to buoy our local economy, I’ve done all my shopping at small local businesses. In addition, I’ve bought only products made in USA. No mean feat. Due to the paucity of product and the often-higher prices, the search for an appropriate gift took quite a bit more time than usual. All that writ, I was able to accomplish my task, and I feel better for the effort. Sonoma-Cutrer Russian River Ranches Sonoma Coast Chardonnay has been a bellwether for the restaurant trade for about 30 years. It has rated 88 or 89 McD points since 2004 with the exception of the 85-point 2006. The 2018 is the typical crisp profile with green apple, citrus and barrel spice riding a slightly elevated acidity frame to a palate-cleansing finish. Those who enjoy bigger buttery may search for the 2016 Sonoma-Cutrer The Cutrer, 89 points, or the 2017, 88 McD. You will pay up to $45. The better food wine is the RRR. Sonoma-Cutrer is owned by Brown-Forman. Big props to them for their recent donation of $100K to the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation.