Starfield Vineyards is a gorgeous estate in El Dorado County, in the Sierra Foothills. Founder Tom Sinton, who had made wine in Paso Robles and Napa before buying his own property, wanted hillsides and rocky soils, “and it had to be beautiful.” Mission accomplished.

   Sinton planted 17 grape varieties – mostly those associated with the Rhône and Italy – in his 31-acre vineyard, which lies at 2,400 feet. There’s a large lineup of wines, but this viognier is a good place to start. It offers fresh apple and lemon fruit up front, leading to notes of dry honey and white flowers. The wine strikes a nice balance between rich and racy.

   I like a number of wines in the Starfield portfolio. Other highlights include a delicious white Rhône blend called Hope Rising; a tasty kitchen-sink red blend (grenache, aglianico, petite sirah, etc.) called The Miner’s Inch; a fresh, bright fiano; and a juicy grenache. Prices generally range from $38 to $42; the viognier sells for $38. It would pair nicely with seared scallops or grilled shrimp.