At Frog’s Leap, we have been fortunate enough to work with the same Chardonnay vineyard ever since our first vintage in 1985. Planted by the renowned Truchard family in 1979, these vines are deeply rooted in the decomposed shale and sandstone that are characteristic of the steeply-sloped hillsides of Carneros, and lend themselves perfectly to the balanced, restrained style that is our signature. Fermented for only a handful of days in new French oak barrels, the wine is racked at the peak of its fermentation to insulated vessels that keep the residual heat, where it sits, untouched and sur lie, for up to 12 months. Grown in shale and stone, our Chardonnay boasts incredible freshness and a distinct mineral edge that speaks directly to its origins.
Citrus, apricot and pome fruits dominate the nose of this young wine, backed up by a tense, phenolic palate with superb acidity. Recommend letting the 2023 fully breathe after opening, and even consider decanting to let it show off what it’s got.
100% Chardonnay
96 Vinous The 2023 Chardonnay Shale and Stone, from Truchard in Carneros, is all class. Apricot, lemon confit, marzipan, tangerine peel, tropical fruit and a kiss of French oak grace this exotic, dynamic Chardonnay from Frog's Leap. Airy and gracious, with stunning balance, the 2023 is fabulous in every way. Drinking Window: 2026 -2035
91 James Suckling Spiced apples and pears with hints of citrus peel and raw almonds on the nose. Tense and juicy with medium to full body and a compact, lightly phenolic texture. Vivid and lingering. Drink or hold.
