The 2012 Chardonnay Russian River (4,360 cases) was aged on its lees in one-third new French oak for 11 months and underwent full malolactic fermentation. A six-vineyard blend, it is composed primarily of the Old Wente...
The 2012 Chardonnay Russian River (4,360 cases) was aged on its lees in one-third new French oak for 11 months and underwent full malolactic fermentation. A six-vineyard blend, it is composed primarily of the Old Wente clone as well as Mt. Eden and a handful of others. Nearly 50% comes from the Dutton Vineyard and the rest from the Heintz, DuMOL Estate, Lorenzo, Ritchie and a few others. Like most of the DuMOL Chardonnays, it reveals a greenish hue to its color as well as attractive aromas of orange blossom, delicate pineapple, wet pebbles and fresh acids in its medium to full-bodied, surprisingly concentrated, heady personality. This big-time winner should age nicely for 7-8 years. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.