2 0 0 9 FAR NIENTE ESTATE BOTTLED
C H ARD ONNAY
N A PA VALLEY
V INE YARD NOT E S
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Ap p ellat i o n
Napa Valley
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Harvest Dates
September 5 October 12, 2009
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Varietals
100% Chardonnay
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Fermentation
100% barrel; No ML
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Aging
10 months sur lie
in French oak
(61% new, 39% once-used)
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Release Date
Far Niente Chardonnay is a blend of superlative Napa Valley vineyards, many
of which are located in a little-known area called Coombsville, a cool growing
region nestled in the rolling countryside and protected by the hills east of the
city of Napa. Coombsville offers the characteristic climate of Carneros, with less
wind, along with deeper, well-drained gravelly loam and volcanic ash soils. The
combination of these spectacular vineyards results in the subtle, tropical flavors,
complex aromas and uncommon richness that we have long associated with Far
Niente Chardonnay.
H A RV E ST NOT E S
The 2009 season brought us the third winter in a row with drought conditions,
but by March, rainfall was close to normal. A mild and cool spring coupled with
a touch of late season rains ensured strong yet well-balanced vine growth. A small
heat spike in early July, followed by temperate summer days, allowed the fruit
to steadily ripen. September arrived with the warmest weather of the season,
enabling us to harvest our vineyards at the peak of ripeness before the fall rains.
P R O DU C T IO N NOT E S
The 2009 Far Niente Chardonnay offers aromas of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle
and melon layered with toasted hazelnut and nutmeg. The entry is oily, long and
silky with clean, bright acidity and fresh, tropical fruit flavors supported by sweet
toasted oak.
November 2010
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Director of Winemaking
Dirk Hampson
FAR NIENTE • P.O. BOX 3 27, OA KV I LLE , C A 9 4562 • T EL: (707 ) 94 4 - 2 861 FA X : (707 ) 94 4 - 2 3 12 • WWW.FA RN IEN TE.COM