Far Niente : Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2020

A fresh and beautifully aromatically rich Napa Valley wine

The estate

Founded in 1885 by John Benson, the Far Niente estate, whose name echoes the Italian expression "Dolce Far Niente" meaning "sweet to make," underwent significant development until it was abandoned in 1919 at the start of Prohibition. Untouched for sixty years, this Napa Valley estate was bought in 1979 by Gil and Beth Nickel, who undertook extensive work to restore the property to its original splendour.

Inspired by the great wine estates across the Atlantic, Gil Nickel produces only two grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The winery recently celebrated its 40th vintage.

Thanks to its history, terroir and the quality of its wines, Far Niente is an iconic Napa Valley name that has played a part in the international development of great Californian wines.

The historic estate is listed in the National Register of Places as one of the most exclusive places in Napa Valley, not least because of its caves, which were the first underground caves built in North America.

The vineyard

Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2020 from the Far Niente estate is a Napa Valley wine made from vineyards in the Coombsville wine-growing area. Situated on the hills to the east of the town of Napa, these vineyards are unique in that they have a warm climate with dry summers and a subsoil made up of gravelly and volcanic loam, which allows for deep rooting and excellent drainage. These conditions give the wine a beautiful subtlety, combined with complex, rich aromas.

The vintage

March was marked by warm temperatures and low rainfall, followed by a short period of cool weather and rain at the end of March. The summer season saw cool mornings and sunny days with little humidity, resulting in limited vegetative growth and a small harvest. Despite forest fires in August, the proximity of the Chardonnay vineyards to the grapes and the cool coastal winds ensured their protection. Harvesting began on 25 August and ended successfully on 17 September.

Winemaking and ageing

Fermentation in barrels (82%) and vats (18%). Aged on lees for 11 months in French oak barrels, 53% of which were new.

Grape variety

Chardonnay (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2020 from Far Niente

Tasting

Richly aromatic on the palate, with notes of figs and citrus blossom developing into honeydew, nectarine and lemon zest. The finish is lively and marked by notes of toasted oak.