2015
Chardonnay
Russian River Valley
Sophia’s Vineyard
Winemaker Notes
This elegant, multi-layered Chardonnay has pitch perfect balance and texture. Intertwined in the palate are sweet spice, white nectarine, brioche, orange oil, green apple, and a classic river stone minerality. The mouthfeel has an amazing polish, presence, and viscosity that finishes perfectly focused, leaving a persistent impression on the palate.
VINOUS Review
by Antonio Galloni
The 2015 Chardonnay Sophia’s Vineyard is laced with hints of orange peel, spice, star anise, mint and rich, buttery notes. Resonant and oily on the palate, but with the freshness that is so typical of these wines, the 2015 Sophia’s exudes class. The sumptuous, silky finish adds to the wine’s considerable appeal. – 94 pts.
Production Notes
Winemaker – Robbie Meyer
Production: 300 cases
Russian River Appellation
Located near Graton
Elevation 700 feet
Vine Age – 40+ years
Goldridge Soils
Gentle North Facing Slope
Harvested in September 2015
Malolactic Fermentation
Barrel Fermented
Wild Yeast Fermentation
40% New French Oak
Barrel Aged 14 Months (sur lees)
Bottled in December 2016
Sophia’s Vineyard
Warren Dutton planted this 7 acre vineyard in the 1970s using the Old Wente Clone without rootstock. Located near Graton, the well drained Goldridge soil has kept these vines healthy and productive. On a gentle north facing slope that protects the fruit from the hot afternoon sun, the vines are trained on a vertical trellis (VSP).