Forge Caywood Vineyard Seneca Lake Chardonnay New York 2023 Rated 94JS

James Suckling Review
Rated 94 Points
I love the interplay of restrained ripeness, cool minerality and delicate oak. Excellent textural complexity on the medium-bodied palate. Long, elegantly structured finish. From some of the oldest vines in the region, planted inn the 1970s. Drink or hold.

Forge Caywood Vineyard Seneca Lake Chardonnay 2023

Textural. Mineral. A focused, cool-climate Chardonnay shaped by old vines and the unique terroir of Seneca Lake.
Sourced from historic Caywood Vineyard plantings, this Chardonnay reflects Forge's commitment to minimal intervention and vineyard-first winemaking. The 2023 vintage shows lifted aromatics, layered orchard fruit, bright acidity, and subtle lees-driven complexity, offering a refined Finger Lakes expression with impressive depth.

Key Details

• Producer: Forge Cellars
• Vineyard: Caywood Vineyard
• Region: Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes, New York
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Mineral-driven, textural, cool-climate
• ABV: 12.4%

Tasting Notes

• Floral aromatics with lemon, apple, pear, and a touch of peach
• Ripe citrus and green orchard fruit with hints of almond and vanilla from subtle oak influence
• Creamy lees texture balanced by bright acidity and mineral tension
• Medium body with a long, clean, mineral-focused finish

What Makes It Stand Out

• Old-vine Chardonnay from one of Seneca Lake's historic vineyard sites
• Combines cool-climate freshness with layered texture and depth
• Praised for balance, purity, and the ability to age gracefully

Food Pairing

• Seared scallops or white-fish dishes
• Roast chicken with herbs
• Goat cheese, brie, or alpine cheeses
• Vegetable risotto or citrus-driven dishes