2023 Estate Chardonnay

Vineyard: The River Road Ranch vineyard is located within the Russian River Valley AVA. The soil composition is Cortina, characterized as deep, well-draining soil composed mainly of gravel/sandy loam. This fast-draining soil leads to stressed vines that focus their energy on the grapes rather than leafy growth, resulting in more intensity and concentration. Certified Sustainable in 2017 (CCSW)

 

38°29'18.9"N 122°49'00.5"W

 

Vintage: After a very wet winter, the 2023 growing season was slow to start. Spring was cool and cloudy leading to a delayed and drawn-out bloom in Russian River Valley. Once the vines had set their fruit, the rest of the season continued at a slow and steady pace. Patience was key as most vineyard blocks were three to four weeks behind their typical pick dates. The wait was well worth it as the resulting wines all showcase their natural acidity in perfect balance with fresh fruit flavors and aromas. Seasons like 2023 without large weather fluctuations lend themselves to truly elegant wines.

 

Winemaking: Our Chardonnay fruit comes from two distinct blocks on our Russian River Ranch. Hand-harvested at night, the grapes are quickly and gently pressed on arrival at the winery. The juice is allowed to settle overnight and then transferred to French oak barrels for fermentation. This stage in barrel is followed by weekly bâtonnage, or lees stirring, to help extract the rich and creamy texture this wine showcases.

 

Oak: 100% French | Aging: 12 months