Decoy California Chardonnay

Tasting note Decoy California Chardonnay

In the glass, expressive aromas of mandarin blossom, white peach, and tropical fruit, such as mango and pineapple. On the palate, it is juicy and lively, with a soft, almost creamy texture and refined notes of vanilla, toast, and light spices derived from oak aging. The fresh acidity provides balance and gives the wine an elegant, highly drinkable finish.

Food Pairing

Decoy California Chardonnay pairs excellently with grilled chicken, creamy pasta dishes with seafood or risotto, as well as salads with mango and prawns. It also makes a lovely match with soft and creamy cheeses. Thanks to its fresh acidity and subtle use of oak, the wine remains balanced with both light and slightly richer dishes.

Other information

The wine is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from various quality vineyards in California. To maintain both freshness and complexity, a portion of the wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel, while another part is matured in French oak barrels. The aging process lasts on average about 8 to 9 months, often with maturation on the lees (yeast cells), which provides extra texture and roundness.

Decoy is part of the renowned winery Duckhorn, founded by Dan Duckhorn and Margaret Duckhorn. While the parent house focuses on high-end Napa Valley wines, Decoy is known as their more accessible line, with a strong focus on quality and drinkability. Decoy has grown into one of the best-selling premium wine brands in the United States.

Wine scores/awards

• 2022: 90 points – Wine Enthusiast
• 2021: 89 points – Wilfred Wong

Fun fact

The name “Duckhorn” does not come from wine but from the hobby of founder Dan Duckhorn; he loved duck hunting.