2021 Girard - Chardonnay Carneros
The 2021 Girard Chardonnay Carneros captures the cool, fog-influenced character that defines Carneros, a winegrowing region perched between Napa and Sonoma near San Pablo Bay. The marine breezes here help preserve bright acidity, allowing the fruit to express itself with clarity. Grapes for this bottling were fermented and aged in French oak, with time spent on the lees contributing extra creaminess and body to the finished wine.
On the nose, bright citrus notes of lemon and tangerine mingle with stone fruit and a touch of toasted oak. The palate is defined by refined minerality that supports ripe pear, lemon cream, and fresh apple, delivering a medium-weight texture and a lingering, well-balanced finish.
About the producer: Girard Winery began in 1975, founded by father and son Steve and Steve Girard with a focus on premium, Bordeaux-style wines. In 2000, vintner Pat Roney acquired the Girard name, and the winery settled in Calistoga under longtime winemaker Glenn Hugo, who rose from harvest intern to lead winemaker. Girard’s approach emphasizes decades-long grower relationships across Napa Valley’s varied sub-appellations, crafting wines that stay true to their origins. This Chardonnay embodies that philosophy by sourcing from Carneros and highlighting the region’s cool-climate elegance.
Food Pairings
- Roast chicken
- Seared scallops
- Creamy pasta dishes