| This is a full bodied Chardonnay from the heart of the Russian River Valley. The fruit was meticulously grown, handpicked, whole cluster pressed and barrel fermented. No commerical yeast was added, the barrels were stirred daily during fermentation and then weekly. The surlies ageing produced a full round palate, rich and elegant. We aged the chard in 40% new French oak barrels coopered by Vernou. The fruit was harvested from the Ritchie Vineyard owned by our friend Kent Ritchie. I have worked with Kent for 14 years and his chardonnay has always been excellent. His vineyard soil is the beautiful merced loam typical of the Russian River Valley, the topography is gently rolling and undulating hills which give the vines a full exposure to the sun. The location of the vineyard is in the center of the valley, far enough from the river to experience warm temperatures while still close enough to enjoy the gentle cooling from the River fog and breezes in the evenings. The 2007 vintage was produced from specially selected Dijon clones. I have spent many days walking the vineyard, sampling the fruit, listening to Andrea Bocelli on my headset and reveling in the beauty of the sunrise among the vines. Both my daughters have worked with me sampling the grapes, we have many happy memories in Kent's vineyard. |
