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
Concrete Aged Sauvignon Blanc
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Sauvignon Blanc has long been central to the Frog’s Leap story and serves as a reference point for restrained Napa Valley whites. Rather than chasing overt tropical ripeness or sweetness, the estate focuses on dryness, mineral structure and aromatic precision. The Concrete Aged Sauvignon Blanc intensifies this focus, employing careful vineyard selection, old vines, fermentation in concrete egg and extended aging sur lie to drive a intense, mineral-driven expression of Sauvignon Blanc fully expressive of its Rutherford origins.
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