Far Niente Chardonnay 2023

Winemaker notes:

"Far Niente, renowned for its production of estate bottled Napa Valley Chardonnay and Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, was one of Napa Valley’s original stone wineries at the time of its construction in the late 19th century. A dedication to winemaking in its highest form, paired with a focus on house style, vineyard ownership and social responsibility, has established Far Niente as one of the world’s great wine estates.

"The precedent was set by Gil Nickel, who purchased the abandoned winery in 1979. Drawing inspiration from the great European wine estates, he determined to produce just two wines – Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Dirk Hampson joined the team in 1982 to manage winemaking, and Larry Maguire in early 1983. Together, the Nickel family, Hampson and Maguire continue to make this magnificent Chardonnay in the longstanding, exception Far Niente style.

"Aromas of melon, sweet citrus and white blossom floral layered with notes of flint, yeast and sweetly toasted oak. A smooth and focused entry is followed by a silky midpalate with ripe flavors of honeydew and lemon, supported by just a touch of wet stone, yeast and toasted hazelnuts. The finish is long and structured with citrus rind and mouthwatering acid."

Critical acclaim:

"95 points.

"Coombsville vineyards protected by the hills east of downtown Napa are home to this Chardonnay. They’re as cool as Carneros but less windy, with deeper soils of gravel and volcanic ash, and their influence on this dignified white shows in its complex persona. A fine balance of stone fruit, acid structure, and zingy citrus creates a tangible yet delicate mouthfeel. Honeysuckle and gardenia offer significant floral tones." - Tasting Panel

"94 points.

"Spicy oak and bright acidity complement each other in this well-made white, which shows strong tones of crisp citrus and green apple. It builds body on the midpalate, with integrated woody notes and lasting richness." - Wine Enthusiast