This vineyard has been farmed by the Martinelli family for generations, and continues to be tended by George Martinelli. A mild climate graces this corner of Sonoma, and grapes ripen slowly in the well-draining Goldridge soil. Located near the village of Graton in the rolling hills south of the Russian River, Frei Road Vineyard produces a wine of great complexity, tension, and minerality.
Ferren Chardonnay Frei Road's food pairing
"A stylish and intense version, with its bold mix of lemon curd, mango puree and dried apricot mingling with notes of orange blossoms, toasted sesame seed and panna cotta, plus a touch of salted butterscotch. Finds tremendous harmony and hints of litsea oil and white pepper on the finish. Drink now through 2038.—M.W."
- Wine Spectator Insider (April 1st 2026), 94 pts
"Bold and intense, with notes of salted butterscotch, juicy pineapple, lemon curd and tangerine marmalade at the core. Expands into complex elements of toasted marshmallow, litsea oil, shortbread, lemon blossoms and sweetgrass. A vibrant thread of acidity keeps the flavors bold and in focus on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2039.—M.W"
- Wine Spectator, 96 pts
Matt Courtney and David Wherritt founded Ferren, a Sonoma Coast winery, in 2013, after an eight-year apprenticeship with the famous Helen Turley of Marcassin. Ferren is dedicated to producing tiny ...
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