2024 Hartford Court - Chardonnay Russian River Valley (750ml)

Hartford Court, part of Hartford Family Winery, crafts site-driven Chardonnays from some of Sonoma's most storied coastal vineyards. The Russian River Valley itself is named for the river that runs through it, and while pockets of the AVA run warm, it's largely a cool-climate region shaped by Pacific breezes and fog. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir dominate here, with the best bottlings showing a distinctive balance of richness and restraint.

The 2024 vintage opens with subtle aromas of white flowers, citrus oil, and apricot, backed by an elegant edge of reduction. Layered notes of vibrant citrus, crisp green apple, and nectarine emerge, accented with delicate hints of mango and pineapple. On the palate, fresh nectarine, lemon drop, and grilled pineapple flavors lead into a fruit-focused mid-palate, finishing with subtle minerality and a hint of crystallized ginger. Graceful acidity carries the wine through to a long, luxurious finish.

Reviewers have called this vintage a standout for its appellation-level bottling, praising its bright, sunny orchard fruit character paired with real freshness and finesse.

This Chardonnay is an excellent match for roast chicken, seafood in cream or butter sauces, and semi-firm cheeses like gouda or manchego. It's a great choice for fans of California Chardonnay that lean toward elegance over heavy oak.