Far Niente Chardonnay, Napa Valley

Producer Note

Far Niente, one of the earliest stone wineries, derives its name from the Italian phrase "Dolce Far Niente" (how sweet it is to do nothing). It was founded in 1885 and flourished until prohibition. Abandoned for over 60 years, the winery was purchased in 1979 by Gil Nickel. He started the long process of restoring it. Far Niente's quest to produce outstanding wines of distinctive character has led them to a philosophy that requires vineyard ownership. Today, they own 200 acres (3 different vineyard sites) of what many regard as some of the finest vineyard land in the Napa Valley.

Vineyard

Far Niente Chardonnay is a blend of superlative Napa Valley vineyards, many of which are located in a little-known area called Coombsville, a cool growing region nestled in the rolling countryside and protected by the hills east of the city of Napa. Coombsville offers the characteristic climate of Carneros, with less wind, along with deeper, well-drained gravelly loam and volcanic ash soils. The combination of these spectacular vineyards results in the subtle, tropical flavours, complex aromas and uncommon richness that we have long associated with Far Niente Chardonnay.

Winemaking

The hand harvested grapes were brought to the winery in small bins and sorted by hand to assure the finest quality. Fermentation began in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks and then racked into a high percentage of new French Burgundy oak barrels to complete the fermentation in the caves and old stone cellars. The wine was aged for nine months on its fine lees for additional depth, complexity and texture The maturation took place in French oak barrels (61% new, 39% used once).

Tasting Note

This wine opens with delicate aromas of citrus blossom, honeydew melon, pear, flint and toasted almonds. The palate is silky with pear and citrus flavours. Refreshing acidity leads to a juicy finish, layered with toasted oak.

Serving Suggestion

Ideal with pan fried scallops or lobster thermidor.

Grape

Chardonnay 100%