Description

The Calling Dutton Ranch Chardonnay 2018

Russian River Valley

92pts – Wine Spectator

Background

Dutton Ranch is composed of 1,100 acres of premium Sonoma County vineyards planted on coveted Goldridge sandy loam soil. Fruit for this vintage was sourced from several locations within Dutton Ranch’s Russian River Valley vineyards. Plots in the warmer end of the valley contributed ripe tropical elements, while those om cooler areas lent minerality and a structural backbone.

Appellation

Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma County

Sourcing

– Dutton Ranch – Braughton Vineyard
– Dutton Ranch – Dutton Hill Vineyard
– Dutton Ranch – Gail Ann Vineyard
– Dutton Ranch – Jewell Vineyard
– Dutton Ranch – JJJs
– Dutton Ranch – Mill Station Vineyard
– Dutton Ranch – Summerhouse Park Vineyard

Varietal Composition

100% Chardonnay

Winemaking

Grapes were hand-sorted and whole clusters were gently pressed into French oak barrels. The wine was barrel-fermented with native yeasts and was aged sur lie in barrel for 9 months with weekly battonage.

Vintage Note

The 2018 vintage was a cooler growing year compared to heat waves seen over recent vintages. Moderate temperatures experienced in 2018 resulted in a longer growing season. The grape clusters were excellent quality, creating a juice that contains a lot of natural acidity and fruit intensity.

Oak Aging:  100% French Oak, 30% new

Time in Oak:  9 months

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay is fresh, lively and fun to drink. Honeysuckle, white rose petal, lemon meringue and white flowers delight on the nose while crushed white rose petal, Bartlett pear, honeydew melon and Meyer lemon fill out the palate for a balanced, full-bodied Chardonnay.

Technical Data:  pH 3.450        TA 6.1 g/L       RS <1.5 g/L       Alcohol 14.1%

Winemaker:  James MacPhail                             Founders:  Peter Deutsch and Jim Na ntz