Decoy by Duckhorn Chardonnay

Tasting Notes and Characteristics:

Bright and inviting on the palate, Decoy by Duckhorn Chardonnay offers a smooth, medium-bodied feel that suits dinner or relaxed gatherings. It clocks in at ABV 0.135 and is produced in the United States from California Chardonnay grapes, typically fermented with a mix of stainless steel and some oak influence to balance fresh fruit and subtle creaminess.

Flavors lean toward green apple, pear, citrus peel and a touch of ripe melon, with gentle vanilla and toasted oak notes that add texture. The wine’s acidity and soft oak presence lift roast chicken by cutting through richness and echoing savory herbs, while the silky, slightly buttery mouthfeel pairs beautifully with lobster, enhancing sweet, briny flavors.

Producer Information: Duckhorn

Duckhorn is based in St. Helena in Napa Valley and was founded in 1976 by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn. They began by championing Merlot from select Napa vineyards and built their reputation on careful vineyard sourcing and site-specific winemaking. Their production approach emphasizes small-lot fermentation, selective vineyard blocks and single-vineyard bottlings, classic Bordeaux varietal blends, and maturation in French oak, combined with long-term investment in estate holdings and sustainable viticultural practices.

Beyond their flagship Merlot and Bordeaux-style bottlings, Duckhorn’s broader portfolio spans multiple appellations and grape varieties. Their family of labels includes value and regional bottlings that target Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, plus varietal and blended cuvées that showcase site expression. Sub-brands such as Decoy, Goldeneye, Migration, Paraduxx and Canvasback allow the company to present distinct single-vineyard Pinots, expressive Sauvignon Blancs, Rhône-influenced blends and Washington State and California Cabernet-driven wines, while the group focuses on premium still wines rather than spirits or beer.