Far Niente Winery Post & Beam Carneros Chardonnay 2023

Ellen Clifford

The look is similar, slightly simpler (than Far Ninety). The taste is still high quality. I honestly felt like this tasted as expected in this price range, but I can also remember wines I’ve tasted that were more expensive that I liked less, and vice versa. So, overall, I think this is a good bet if you want that luxe feel for (slightly) less lira. I tried the 2023 Carneros Chardonnay, which is more rich and big. The nose gives lemon balm, vanilla bean, tangerine, quince and chalk, buffered by baking spice. The palate is luscious but bright and shimmery, the acidity taking turns with vanilla and cream to show off, garnished by caramel. Rather scrumptious, definitely a food Chard, but not so much that you couldn’t enjoy it on its own, especially heading into autumn.

Abbas Zand

Floral nose. Medium to full body. Bright acidity. Tropical notes melon/pineapple. Toasted barrel oakiness. $40