Frog's Leap Winery
Chardonnay 2022
Rutherford
Sourced from organically farmed vines planted in 1979 on the steep, shale- and sandstone-rich slopes of Carneros, this Chardonnay reflects its origins with precision and minerality. Whole-cluster pressed with brief skin contact, the wine begins fermentation in tank, then completes it in new French oak and insulated vessels. Aged sur lie for 12 months without stirring, the result is a richly textured, yet vibrant wine marked by notes of lemon curd, white flowers, and gunpowder minerality.
VINEYARD
Frog’s Leap Chardonnay “Shale and Stone” is sourced from the Truchard Vineyard in Napa-Carneros, planted on steep, west-facing hillsides with fractured shale and sandstone soils. The site’s low elevation and excellent drainage encourage deep root systems and concentrated fruit—ideal conditions for crafting a balanced, mineral-driven Chardonnay.
WINEMAKING
Frog’s Leap Chardonnay “Shale and Stone” is whole-cluster pressed with brief skin contact, then begins fermentation in tank before being transferred to new French oak barrels for the most active phase. As fermentation slows, the wine is moved to insulated steel vessels designed to mimic the thermal properties of concrete, allowing it to finish fermenting at a steady, cool temperature.
VINTAGE
Harvested in seven separate picks between August & September, as different sections of the vineyard reached full ripeness. 2022 was characterized by a mix of early warmth and a significant heat event in early September.
TASTING NOTE
Bright, crisp, and refreshing character with a focus on minerality and purity. Aromas of ripe apple, quince, and lemon pith, balanced by bright acidity and a subtle spice note.
Color
White
Blend %
100% Chardonnay
Appellation
Rutherford
Certifications
Organic
Farming
Organic and Dry Farming practices
Alcohol
13.4%
Reviews
James Suckling - March 12, 2025
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Sauvignon Blanc
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Stone fruit and white flower aromatics are perfectly complemented with crisp, minerally flavors. Fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity and distinctiveness of this noble grape.
Merlot
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Grown in cool clay and crafted with care- this Merlot is a refined, age-worthy wine of both subtlety and strength. Showing deep plum and cocoa notes with soft tannins and a savory finish, aged in a mix of small French oak barrels to enhance texture without overpowering the wine’s natural elegance.
Cabernet Sauvignon
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This classically structured Estate Cabernet reflects a deep understanding of Rutherford Dust, with estate vineyards rooted in alluvial soils that balance up-valley richness and down-valley energy, creating a wine of vibrant tension. Layers of blackberry, cassis, and dried herbs and aged in restrained French oak.
Zinfandel
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Made in the classic field blend style including significant portions of Petite Sirah and Carignane. Vibrant raspberry and black cherry fruit with hints of spice and earth, balanced by bright acidity and moderate tannins—crafted from dry-farmed, organically grown vines and aged in neutral oak to preserve its varietal purity and freshness.
Flycatcher
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Flycatcher is a vibrant, juicy field blend bursting with red berry fruit, spice, and floral notes, crafted from organically grown Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignan, and Valdiguié, co-fermented and aged in neutral oak for a fresh, energetic expression of California terroir.
