Far Niente 2009 Estate Chardonnay

The 2009 Far Niente Chardonnay offers aromas of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle and melon layered with toasted hazelnut and nutmeg. The entry is oily, long and silky with clean, bright acidity and fresh, tropical fruit flavors supported by sweet toasted oak.

Vineyard Notes

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 subtle, tropical flavors, complex aromas and uncommon richness.

Vintage Notes

The 2009 season brought the third winter in a row with drought conditions, but by March, rainfall was close to normal. A mild and cool spring coupled with a touch of late-season rains ensured strong yet well-balanced vine growth. A small heat spike in early July, followed by temperate summer days, allowed the fruit to steadily ripen. September arrived with the warmest weather of the season, enabling Far Niente to harvest their vineyards at the peak of ripeness before the fall rains.