2022 Duckhorn Decoy Chardonnay California

Winemaker Notes:  With luxurious aromas of ripe mango, pineapple, Mandarin orange and sweet citrus zest, this vibrant Chardonnay beckons a first sip. On the smooth, supple palate, refreshing acidity adds poise and polish to the tropical fruit flavors, with hints of vanilla and toasted almonds adding complexity to a long, lush finish.

The 2022 harvest got off to an early start, with relatively low yields and warm late-July and early-August weather driving ripeness in many key appellations. As a result, we began harvesting Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir all in the first weeks of harvest. Early September brought a significant heat event to much of the state. During this period we meticulously monitored the weather reports, and our crews worked tirelessly to bring the fruit from each appellation in at ideal ripeness. After minor rains in late-September that cooled down the vines, we concluded harvest in late October. Although the pace was brisk, the wines are absolutely amazing, with bright, fruit-forward whites, and opulent and beautifully structured reds.