Exploring local, Santa Cruz Mountains white wines is always a garden of forking paths. One sample leads to another and it’s easy to get lost in a malolactic maze.

ahlgren.jpgTo demystify, here are two terrific ideas in the category of substantial white wine — wine with enough distinction and identity to partner whatever your holiday table plans to hold.

The Ahlgren Semillon 2002 – as fine a semillon as this legendary house has made, and full of the perfume of lilacs and jalapeño. $16.99 at most enlightened wine and food shops.

Windy Oaks Estate Chardonnay 2005 One-Acre –windyoaks.jpg lighter than California-style, but freighted with enough pear and caramel center to thrill the palate – this beautiful white wine shows off the intellectual and very light touch of winemaker Jim Schultze. Available from the winery or on-line, for $35.