2021 Hartford Court - Chardonnay Sonoma FOUR HEARTS

Hartford Family Winery was founded in 1993 by Don and Jennifer Hartford, drawn to the unique vineyard sites scattered around their home in the Russian River Valley. Based in the Sonoma County town of Forestville, not far from the cool Pacific coastline, the family built its reputation on limited-production, single-vineyard bottlings released under the Hartford Court label. Winemakers Jeff Stewart and Tiaan Lordan continue that focus today, favoring old, characterful sites over large-scale sourcing.

Four Hearts Vineyard sits on Laguna Ridge in the Russian River Valley and holds some of the oldest Chardonnay plantings in the appellation, propagated from heirloom clones. The cool climate here, shaped by marine air drifting in from the coast, allows the fruit to ripen gradually and hold onto natural acidity. In some vintages a small portion of grapes from the nearby Middle Reach area is blended in to add floral lift, and the wine is barrel fermented and aged in French oak to build texture and depth.

The 2021 vintage pours a rich golden hue and opens with aromas of toasted cedar, baked orchard fruit, and warm spice. On the palate, ripe yellow pear, tangerine, and almond come through in a full-bodied, nutty style with a pithy, savory edge. Pair it with roast turkey, pan-seared scallops, or a wedge of aged gouda.