Winemaker Description
The 2024 Dr. Konstantin Frank Chardonnay is bright and energetic, showcasing a harmonious balance of fruit and oak influence. On the nose, ripe nectarine and apricot aromas mingle with hints of acacia flowers, offering a fresh and vibrant bouquet. The palate reveals layers of elegance, with undertones of chamomile tea adding complexity and finesse.
A gentle touch of vanilla and sweet spice enhances the wine’s creamy texture, leading to a smooth finish accented by a nuttiness. Refined yet lively, this Chardonnay beautifully captures the Finger Lakes’ cool-climate character.
Pair the 2024 Chardonnay with seafood finished in a light lemon butter sauce or herb-and-citrus glaze, as well as roast chicken or turkey with fresh herbs and a creamy pan sauce.
Its balanced texture and acidity also complement grilled autumn vegetables, nutty cheeses, and Marcona almonds, and it pairs beautifully with both creamy and sharp cheeses.
Chardonnay was one of the first three varieties planted by Dr. Frank, alongside Riesling and Pinot Noir, in 1958. What makes this wine especially compelling is the old block of Chardonnay from which it is sourced.
Thanks to Dr. Frank’s viticultural expertise and international connections, grape cuttings were sourced from across North America and Europe. Through a relationship in Quebec (and long before modern quarantine regulations), Dr. Frank personally the transported cuttings, leveraging his fluency in French to bring them across the border.
Today, it is widely believed that this vineyard block originates from Burgundy-derived clones, which were propagated in Dr. Frank’s nursery for decades, up until the mid-1990s. Throughout the Finger Lakes, stories still circulate of wineries proudly saying they planted a “Dr. Frank Chardonnay clone” - a testament to the lasting influence of his mark on the region.
WINEMAKER NOTES
For winemaker Sarah, Chardonnay represents both creative freedom and precision.
“It really is a winemaker’s playground. There are so many styles you can push Chardonnay into.” The approach for the 2024 Chardonnay is rooted in balance. Fresh, clean varietal aromatics - citrus, tree fruit, and riper stone fruit - form the foundation, while carefully selected oak adds complementary layers of spice, vanilla, toast, and subtle nuttiness.
Rather than overpowering the fruit, 62% French oak is used as a supporting vessel, enhancing texture and complexity through 9 months of barrel aging with thoughtful lees work.
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