Folie à Deux Chardonnay 2021

A classic Russian River Valley Chardonnay, showcasing a balance of ripe fruit, toasty oak, and vibrant acidity.

General Information

• Winery/Producer: Folie à Deux Winery
• Region: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Appellation/AVA: Russian River Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area)
• Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2021
• Winemaking Style: Folie à Deux Chardonnays often undergo partial or full malolactic fermentation, contributing to a creamy texture and buttery notes. Oak aging, typically in French oak barrels (a percentage of new oak is common), adds complexity and integrates the oak flavors. The winemaking team aims to balance richness with the natural acidity of the Russian River Valley fruit.
• Alcohol Content: Typically around 13.5-14.5% ABV (Alcohol by Volume).
• Aging/Maturation: Typically 10-12 months in French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance/Visual: Brilliant pale straw to golden yellow color with golden highlights. Clear and bright.
• Nose/Aroma: An intense and complex bouquet combining notes of white fruits (green apple, pear, ripe apple), citrus fruits (lemon, lime, Meyer lemon), tropical fruits (pineapple, peach, sometimes hints of mango), and nuts (toasted almond, hazelnut). These are complemented by notes of honey, vanilla, toasted oak (often described as vanilla, butterscotch, or toasted marshmallow), and sometimes a subtle floral note like honeysuckle or citrus blossom.
• Palate/Taste: On the palate, this Chardonnay is dry, with a medium to medium-plus body and a vibrant, well-balanced acidity that provides freshness and lift. The flavors echo the aromas, with ripe white and tropical fruit flavors mingling with notes of toasted bread, butter (from malolactic fermentation), baking spices (clove, nutmeg), and a subtle mineral touch. The oak influence is noticeable but integrated, adding complexity rather than dominating the fruit. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a pleasant memory of the fruit, spice, and oak notes. Some sources mention a slight creaminess on the mid-palate.

Food Pairing

This wine is ideal for pairing with a variety of dishes, including:

• Seafood: White fish ceviche, grilled lobster, steamed clams, crab cakes, grilled shrimp, seared scallops.
• Poultry: Roasted chicken, roast turkey, chicken in creamy sauces.
• White Meats: Grilled pork tenderloin, roasted veal.
• Cheeses: Semi-hard cheeses (Gruyère, Comté), aged cheeses, richer cheeses like brie or aged cheddar.
• Other: Creamy pasta dishes, dishes with rich sauces, lobster bisque.

Additional Information

• The Russian River Valley is known for producing high-quality Chardonnay with balanced acidity and complex flavors due to its cool climate and fog influence.
• Folie à Deux focuses on creating wines that are expressive and reflect the unique terroir of the Russian River Valley.
• The name “Folie à Deux” translates to “shared madness” or “shared folly” in French, referring to a shared delusion between two people.

Serving Recommendations

Serve chilled, between 10°C and 13°C (50°F and 55°F).

Notes on Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation. Consumption is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your physician if you have any medical conditions before consuming alcohol.