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2009

Chardonnay

Ritchie Vineyard,
Russian River Valley

From the old vines of Ritchie Vineyard we produce a dynamic chardonnay with great concentration, finesse and vibrant acidity. Glistening pale gold and subtle grassy green hues offer a prelude to enticing aromas of gardenias, golden apples and fresh almonds. The full-bodied, viscous palate is seamlessly layered with lemon zest, crème brûlée and toasted brioche. Notes of minerality linger, accented with Anjou pear and melon over a memorable finish. Alcohol 14.3%

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93 points
Wine Spectator

93 points
International Wine Cellar

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Harvest Date September 16

Growing Season 2009 began with an abundance of spring rain followed by mild, steady summer temperatures that set the stage for nearly ideal pinot noir and chardonnay growing conditions. The well-set fruit ripened slowly allowing for an excellent balance of sugars and acids to develop. The resulting wines can be characterized as elegant and rich with profound depth and structure.

Winemaking

• Hand-harvested grapes
• Whole cluster, direct to press, cold
• Barrel-fermented with indigenous yeasts; 4 months to completion
• Concurrent spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels
• Aged 13 months in French oak barrels; 67% new
• Aged sur lies; biweekly bâtonnage
• Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2011