Far Niente – Napa Valley – Chardonnay

Overview: The Far Niente Winery was established in 1885 by John Benson, a forty-niner of the California gold rush and uncle of the famous American impressionist painter, Winslow Homer. Far Niente prospered until the onset of Prohibition in 1919, whereupon it fell into disrepair. Sixty years later, in 1979, Gil Nickel purchased the winery and adjacent vineyard and began a three-year restoration process which resulted in its placement on the National Register of Historic Places. Our first Chardonnay harvest took place in 1979. That vintage, along with the ’80 and ’81 vintages, were made off site. In 1982, winemaking returned to Far Niente with the first crush of Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Far Niente remains focused on Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay so that it can continue to concentrate its efforts on creating two varietal wines of astonishing quality.

Tasting Notes: Opens with a citrus-honeysuckle perfume, accented with notes of white fig, gardenia and warm toasted oak. The palate is silky and layered with melon and citrus flavors along with hints of toasted vanilla and baking spices and a long, bright finish.

Pairing: Salmon in a Beurre Blanc Sauce, Lobster Salad

Points: 92 pts, Wilfred Wong; 90 pts, Wine Spectator

Format / ABV: 750 ml / 14.0

In certain circumstances, a specific vintage may not be available. If this is the case, a comparable vintage of the same wine will be substituted for online orders. If shopping in store, please check the bottle for the appropriate vintage. If you have a question about a specific vintage that is in stock please email [email protected]