Sequoia Grove, Chardonnay, 2021

ABOUT THE WINE. Sequoia Grove sits on Napa’s Rutherford Bench, a patchwork of alluvial loams and volcanic gravels long celebrated for finely detailed wines. Founded in 1979, the estate is renowned for Cabernet and a Chardonnay style that marries California fruit with refreshment.Chardonnay 2021 is sourced primarily from the cool, wind-swept slopes of Los Carneros to preserve brightness and precision. It was aged 10 months in French oak (31% new) with periodic lees stirring. No malolactic fermentation—to keep the palate clean, vivid and finely tuned.. TASTING NOTES. Lifted aromas of Meyer lemon, golden apple and pear unfold to sour pineapple and a hint of orange blossom. The palate is sleek yet generous, layering citrus curd, baked apple and subtle toasted vanilla, yoghurt and allspice from the oak. Fresh acidity drives a long, balanced finish.. FOOD PAIRING. Crisp enough for duck confit or roast chicken with cream sauce, excellent with broad-bean falafel and smoked hummus, and lovely alongside soft, bloomy-rind cheeses (Camembert, Brie).. FRIARWOOD SAYS. A textbook Sequoia Grove Chardonnay in a poised 2021 guise: rich flavour without heaviness, carefully judged oak, and a pure, non-MLF line that keeps every sip engaging. The estate’s cellar sits among towering sequoias—an iconic Napa setting for a consistently classy white.