2022 Trefethen - Chardonnay Napa Estate (750ml)

Trefethen Family Vineyards traces back to Eugene Trefethen, an engineering executive who purchased a historic, run-down property in Napa's Oak Knoll District and set the family on a path toward sustainable, estate-focused winemaking that now spans more than fifty years. The winery earned international recognition early on, when its Chardonnay was named Best Chardonnay in the World at the 1979 Gault Millau World Wine Olympics in France, a result that helped establish Napa Valley's reputation on the world stage. Today the family continues to farm nearly 600 acres at the Main Ranch, located midway between Yountville and the town of Napa.

Oak Knoll District is one of Napa's coolest sub-appellations, cooled by breezes and fog off San Pablo Bay and the Pacific, which extends the growing season and preserves acidity. The 2022 Estate Chardonnay comes from this well-drained site and is barrel fermented with judicious use of French oak, favoring a crisp, terroir-driven style over heavier, buttery expressions. The wine finishes at a moderate 13.5 percent alcohol.

Aromas of green apple and stone fruit mingle with gardenia, while the palate offers zesty citrus and ginger leading to a light, bright finish. The winery recommends pairing it with shellfish, goat milk cheeses, or tart apples and ripe pears.