2020 Russian River Valley Chardonnay

VINEYARD NOTES

Our Russian River Valley Chardonnay is predominantly harvested from the BCD Vineyard, the Norris Vineyard and the Boriolo Vineyard. Each of these Russian River Valley Vineyards are certified Sonoma Sustainable and contribute their unique complexities to the final blend.

The BCD Vineyard, located adjacent to the DeLoach Estate on a very gentle south facing slope, features heavy clay soils that decrease the vigor of the vines and is influenced by the Laguna de Santa Rosa. The Norris Vineyard is located in the Chalk Hill sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley and is planted to two clones of Chardonnay 809 and 17. Clone 809 provides floral and other high-tone aromatics while the Clone 17 lends richer, riper fruit flavors. The Boriolo Vineyard is located on the Olivet Bench northeast of the winery. The vineyards sandy and clay loam soils produce fruit that is higher in acidity with more minerality and oering fresh fruit flavors. Together, these vineyards produce the backbone of our Russian River Valley Chardonnay.

WINEMAKER NOTES

2020 kicked off with ideal growing conditions. Mild temperatures led to evenly developed clusters and an early budbreak was followed by a warm to hot summer. Low winter rains resulted in smaller berries with concentrated flavors. Harvest started in early August and all things pointed to normal yields and exceptional fruit quality.

TASTING NOTES

On the nose this wine reveals nectarine and ripe pear aromas. The palate is endowed with integrated oak structure, hints of vanilla cream, lemon zest, and baked apples. Building momentum across the mid-palate, this wine is formative with lingering flavors of spice and crème brûlée. The finish has refreshing and persistent acidity that is well-balanced.