2023 Antinori Family Antica A26 Vineyard Chardonnay

Antinori Family Antica Winery

Antinori Family Antica is the Napa Valley project of the Italian Antinori family, who have been active in viticulture for over six centuries. The estate is situated on Atlas Peak and combines Italian philosophy with Californian terroirs. The style is characterized by balance, precision, and a controlled expression of ripe fruit. Work is carried out with a focus on quality and selection, using only the best plots for the top cuvées. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

Atlas Peak is located in the eastern part of Napa Valley and is known for its higher elevation and cooler conditions compared to the valley. The vineyards are situated at an elevation of approximately 1,475 feet and benefit from a long growing season. The 2023 vintage was one of the coolest and longest of recent years, with significant winter precipitation and delayed ripening. This resulted in a slow development of the grapes, allowing aromas and acidity to be optimally preserved.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The A26 Vineyard Chardonnay comes from a selection of less than 10% of the estate's best Chardonnay plots, which cover a total of 134 hectares. The vineyards are situated on volcanic soils of gravelly loam, which contributes to drainage and minerality. Various clones are used, such as Wente, Dijon 96, and Heritage Wiemer, which are known for small bunches and high aromatic intensity. The wine is made from 100% Chardonnay.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The grapes were harvested in the early morning to preserve freshness and then gently pressed. After a short settling period, fermentation began, which took place entirely in oak barrels. The wine aged for six months in French oak barrels, approximately 83% of which were new and 17% once used. About half of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation to impart more roundness and length, while the other half did not to preserve freshness. This combination creates a balance between structure and liveliness.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a clear, light golden-yellow color. On the nose, aromas of candied lemon, citrus zest, and white stone fruit emerge, complemented by notes of hazelnut, brioche, and a light smoky minerality. As the wine opens up, more floral and spicy nuances appear.

On the palate, the wine is rich yet controlled, with a clear tension between ripe fruit and fresh acidity. The texture is round and refined, partly due to the partial malolactic fermentation, while the acidity provides precision and length. The wine has a layered structure and develops gradually in the glass. The finish is clean and lively, with notes of stone fruit, citrus, and a subtle spiciness, supported by a mineral touch.

Development and drinking window

The wine is accessible even when young due to its balance and fresh structure, but has sufficient concentration to develop further. The expected drinking window is between 2025 and 2032, during which the wine will develop towards greater complexity and softness, while retaining its freshness.

Wine & Food and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.