Barnard Griffin Chardonnay '23

The 2023 Barnard Griffin Chardonnay is a beautifully crafted wine that reflects the winery's signature style, blending partial barrel fermentation with stainless steel to preserve fruit character. The 2023 vintage was marked by a smooth growing season, with an early spring followed by a brief, intense heatwave, resulting in optimal fruit development. The harvest was completed by October 21st, with both red and white varieties showcasing excellent concentration and flavor. The Chardonnay is known for its expressive nose, featuring subtle floral notes and toasted oak nuances. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a delicious fruity character and a beautifully structured finish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted poultry and pasta dishes with cream sauce. The wine is made from fruit sourced from several renowned vineyards in the Columbia Valley and Yakima Valley, including Arete, Gamache, Olsen, and Crawford Vineyards. The wine undergoes partial malolactic fermentation, and 44% of the lot is barrel fermented, while the remainder is fermented in stainless steel to retain the fruity character. Aged for 9 months in neutral French oak barriques, the 2023 Chardonnay has an ABV of 13.4% and 7600 cases produced. Barnard Griffin, one of the oldest family-owned wineries in Washington, is led by Rob Griffin, a veteran winemaker with over 40 years of experience, and his wife Deborah. Their daughter Megan Hughes has recently joined the winery as Assistant Winemaker. Known for their dedication to quality and family values, Barnard Griffin wines offer exceptional value and balance, showcasing the unique terroir of the Columbia Valley.