Frog’s Leap 2013 Napa Chardonnay
The first Frog’s Leap wine was released in 1982, a 1981 Sauvignon Blanc, featuring designer Chuck House’s award-winning label, with grapes purchased from Spottswoode. Later, Spottswoode, replanted the Zinfandel to Cabernet Sauvignon, thus eliminating the winery’s source for Zinfandel. With no source for Zin, John Williams makes Cabernet and tries his hand at Chardonnay, and by 1985 is devoting full time efforts to Frog’s Leap, releasing his first Cabernet in 1987. In 1989, Frog’s Leap receives California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) status. In 2005, Chardonnay moves to a single vineyard program, with fruit from Tony Truchard in Carneros.
Opening a bottle, the color is light straw yellow with complex aromas of stone fruits and spices. The palate displayed crisp flavors of lemons and white peaches with generous minerality, not your typical California Chardonnay. Closing your eyes you get the impression the wine is more like a French White Burgundy. The medium finish ends with earthy flavors and light spice. Well balanced with gentle acidity and a kick at the end. Well done!
Cheers!