Privata is Ex Nihilo’s reserve chardonnay label grown in Lake County, a cool, north Okanagan region attracting many chardonnay producers. The latest version is all barrel fermented and aged in 85/15 French and American oak, but only 25 percent is new, giving the fruit every chance to express itself. The alcohol has been reigned in as well at only 13.3 percent. The result is a more exciting palate, full of brighter Lake Country fruit with adequate acidity and, dare I say, a touch of dryness. It still has a buttery/caramel character, but its offset by the lees and some lingering minerality and sea salt. Privata has a little more curb appeal in 2017, but it remains true to the California-like house style at Ex Nihilo.