Chardonnay, Carneros

Girard's Carneros Chardonnay originates from the windswept benchlands between San Pablo Bay and the Mayacamas Mountains, where diurnal temperature swings and marine fog create conditions that favor slow ripening and natural acidity retention. The site's volcanic and alluvial soils drain freely, concentrating mineral expression.

Production centers on barrel fermentation in French oak (proportion and new/used ratio not specified in available data), with malolactic conversion typical of the house style. The wine undergoes sur lie aging, building textural complexity without heavy oak dominance—a signature restraint in Girard's Chardonnay program since the 1980s.

Carneros as a region produces Chardonnays marked by citrus precision and saline minerality rather than tropical fruit weight; Girard's expression reflects this terroir discipline. The wine drinks well on release and holds for 5–7 years in proper storage.

Vintage and current release year not confirmed; verify on label.