Far Niente Winery Estate Chardonnay, Napa Valley, California

Far Niente’s 2023 Estate Chardonnay is a masterful expression of Napa Valley’s cooler vineyard sites, blending fruit from Carneros and Coombsville. Carneros, with its cool maritime climate and well-draining soils, produces Chardonnay grapes of remarkable elegance, while Coombsville’s gravelly loam and volcanic ash soils add depth and complexity. This interplay of terroirs yields a wine of striking balance, where freshness and richness coexist beautifully​.

Product Details

• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Harvest Dates: September 7 – October 16, 2023
• Fermentation: 89% barrel, 11% stainless steel tank; no malolactic fermentation
• Aging: Aged sur lie in French oak barrels (45% new, 55% once-used), medium toast
• Winemaker: Nicole Marchesi
• Vice President of Winemaking: Andrew Delos
• Release Date: Summer 2024​

Sensory Description

From the very first swirl, this Chardonnay invites with a bouquet of citrus blossom, white florals, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. The palate is a study in precision: bright and refreshing, with a silky texture that carries flavors of lemon-lime zest and lemon verbena. Its long, juicy finish lingers, offering both vibrancy and depth—a testament to the slow, cool ripening of the 2023 vintage​.

Winemaker’s Background

Far Niente has long been a standard-bearer for Napa Valley Chardonnay, producing wines of elegance and longevity since its founding in 1885. The winery was revitalized in the late 1970s by Gil Nickel, who embraced a commitment to excellence that continues today. Under the guidance of winemaker Nicole Marchesi—who has been crafting Far Niente’s wines for over a decade—the estate remains dedicated to meticulous farming and winemaking, ensuring that each vintage reflects the purity and complexity of its vineyard sources​.

Serving Suggestions

This Chardonnay shines when served around 50°F—just chilled enough to accentuate its freshness without muting its expressive aromatics. It’s a natural match for butter-poached lobster, roasted chicken with lemon and thyme, or a simple yet luxurious plate of creamy brie and toasted almonds. Whether enjoyed at a celebratory dinner or a casual evening on the patio, this wine promises an experience of pure Napa Valley elegance.