Description

The Calling Dutton Ranch Chardonnay 2020

Russian River Valley

92pts – Wine Enthusiast

Background

Leaders in Sonoma County since 1964, the Dutton family’s holdings now encompass more than 1,100 acres of vineyards, including some of the region’s most celebrated and historic parcels. We work closely with the Dutton family to select exactly the right grapes from a small collection of their vineyards for our Dutton Ranch Vineyards Chardonnay.

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.

JAMES MACPHAIL’S NOTES

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 2020 vintage is refreshing, floral, and a stunning embodiment of the tireless efforts of the Dutton family to produce world-class Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley. Lemon, peach, limestone, and honey waft from the glass while crushed white rose petals, Bartlett pear, honeysuckle, and Meyer lemon zest fill the palate with a well-balanced, medium-to-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