Far Niente Chardonnay Napa Valley 2022
Far Niente Winery · Far Niente Winery, Oakville, Napa Valley
Far Niente Chardonnay is a Napa Valley institution — a wine that has set the standard for California Chardonnay since the estate's revival in 1979. Nicole Marchesi's winemaking philosophy is clear: every decision, from vineyard selection to barrel fermentation to malolactic aging, is made in service of balance rather than power.
Nose
Rich yet elegant: ripe orchard fruit (Fuji apple, pear, quince), toasted brioche, vanilla, and a nuanced hazelnut quality from the French oak ageing.
Palate
Lush and full-bodied with impeccable balance — ripe apple and pear fruit, bright natural acidity, creamy vanilla, toasted oak, and a mineral freshness that keeps each sip lively.
Finish
Long, creamy, and persistent — vanilla, toasted brioche, and a lingering mineral salinity that speaks to the Carneros terroir.
- Varietal
- Chardonnay (100%)
- Blend
- 100% Chardonnay sourced from estate vineyards in Coombsville and Carneros AVAs
Cocktail Suggestion
Cocktail — Far Niente Elderflower Spritz: 3 oz Far Niente Chardonnay · 1 oz elderflower liqueur · 2 oz sparkling water · Lemon twist · Fresh mint. Build in a wine glass over ice. Add Chardonnay, elderflower liqueur, and sparkling water. Garnish with lemon twist and mint.
Food Pairing
Pair with: Butter-poached Maine lobster with tarragon cream and a squeeze of Meyer lemon — the butter, vanilla, and apple notes in the wine mirror the richness of the dish.
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