Freeman Ryo-fu Chardonnay, 2022

Complex, Ripe and Refreshing Chardonnay from the River Russian Valley

Complex aromas combining stone fruits, fresh hay, apples and lemon custard. On the palate, the wine displays a balancing act of high, refreshing acidity with a mouthful of wonderfully ripe Chardonnay fruit. Mostly aged in old oak which adds some texture and body but retains a refreshing finish.

• 12 months in French oak ( 30% new)
• Decanter: 94 Points
• James Suckling: 94 Points

Cellaring: Drink now to 2033

Food Pairing: Fish and shellfish, mild and creamy cheeses, pasta with pesto or cheese-based sauces, chicken or fish in creamy or butter-based sauces.

BEHIND THE WINE

Ryo-fu is Japanese for “cool breeze,” a fitting name for this Russian River Valley Chardonnay shaped by the chilly winds that blow in from the Pacific Ocean.

Since 2001, Freeman has been one of the great pioneers of cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean shapes the character of the wines. Gloria is Freeman’s estate vineyard, located adjacent to the winery. Sitting just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the Gloria vineyard is blessed with a steep hillside for optimal drainage and a climate that is sunny but unusually cool, moderated by fog.