2022 French Family Release Chardonnay

Region

Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada 

Accolades

• 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast

• Unoaked, fermented entirely in stainless steel, offering a bright, clean, fruit-driven expression of Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 French Family Release Chardonnay is a captivating interplay of fruit, texture, and bright acidity. On the nose, expect layers of lemon curd, ripe pear, and orchard blossoms, with subtle hints of vanilla and toasted brioche. The palate is rich yet refined, delivering flavors of green apple, baked apple pie, and honeysuckle, underpinned by a core of refreshing citrus and a touch of creamy oak. The finish is long and polished, anchored by vibrant acidity and a soft mineral streak that lingers.

Winemaker Notes

Aromas

• Fresh lemon zest and baked pear

• Orchard blossoms and honeyed nectarine

• Toasted brioche and vanilla-spice nuances from barrel aging

Palate

• Juicy green and yellow apple

• Lemon pound cake, key lime, and creamy honeydew

• Medium-bodied with a refined, textured mouthfeel

Finish

• Bright, refreshing acidity

• Subtle minerality keeps tension alive

• Lingering oak spice and balanced fruit sweetness

Barrel aged, with partial malolactic fermentation—creating a seamless blend of fruit purity and creamy complexity. The grapes are picked at different times during the late harvest period (late September through mid-October) to enhance the complexity of the blend. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy the vintage alongside these thoughtfully matched dishes:

• Seared scallops or grilled halibut with lemon butter

• Roast chicken in creamy garlic sauce or mushroom risotto

• Soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or triple cream cheese

• Shellfish pasta or trumpet mushroom flatbreads

Why We Love It

The 2022 French Family Release Chardonnay is an exceptional showcase of French-style elegance with New World vibrancy—energized by crisp fruit, artisanal winemaking, and balanced oak. It delivers both approachability and refinement, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. Whether as a sipping wine or a food wine, it radiates purity, structure, and delicious versatility—making it a wonderful addition to any wine lover’s collection.

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