Benziger Family Winery Running Wild Chardonnay is a California white wine sourced from the Paicines AVA vineyards in San Benito County. Grapes grown in this region benefit from warm daytime sunshine that develops alluring aromas of ripe pear, honeysuckle, green apple, and zesty citrus rind, while cooling afternoon breezes help maintain the grapes' natural, lively acidity. The fruit is handpicked at peak ripeness during the cool evening hours to preserve essential acid levels.

In the cellar, 100% of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation followed by batonnage aging for four months, building a creamy texture balanced by energetic acidity. The winemaker selects French oak barrels to provide structure and subtle notes of spice and warm vanilla without overpowering the fruit. The result is a balanced, full-bodied Chardonnay with flavors of rich manuka honey, butterscotch, and a hint of nutmeg, closing with a round, lingering finish.

At 14.5% ABV and packaged in a standard 750ml bottle, this wine pairs well with herb-roasted chicken and crab cakes.