2020 Sequoia Grove, Chardonnay

ABOUT THE WINE
Sequoia Grove is located in the gem of the famed Napa Valley, in what’s known as the Rutherford Bench. The Bench is a very unique geological formation, as it is consisted of a special composition of soils and rocks, and is considered one of the most diverse terroirs in the world. With a mix of alluvial loams, limestone, chalk and red & black volcanic soils, it’s at the prime area for producing wine. As the legendary Napa pioneer André Tchelistcheff quoted, “it takes Rutherford dust to grow great Cabernet.” Founded in 1979, the estate is one of Napa’s cult estates for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. 

TASTING NOTES
A quintessential Napa Chardonnay, overdelivering every expectation one can expect from a premium California Chardonnay. Mainly sourced from the cool vineyards of Los Carneros on the San Pablo Bay, the wine opens with fresh bright yellow and orange citrus notes and golden apples. The tropical pineapple manifests itself as sour pineapple. The spice of the oak is balanced but warming with toasted vanilla, yoghurt and allspice. A wine which strikes a delicious balance between rich flavour and freshness. Aged 10 months in 31% new French barriques, with lee stirring. No malolactic fermentation took place to maintain the freshness of the wine and avoid any overpowering oiliness on the palate. 

FOOD PAIRING
Duck confit, cream chicken and broad bean falafel with smoked hummus, as well as semi-soft cheeses like Camembert.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
The estate barn is blessed to be surrounded by some of the last remaining groves of huge, majestic sequoia trees. It is also known to house Napa’s first underground cellar.