2020 Dutton Palms Vineyard Chardonnay

THE VINEYARD

Dutton Ranch farms more than 80 separate vineyards in the Russian River Valley. Planted in 1980, the Dutton Palms Vineyard encompasses Joe and Tracy's home vineyard. The Wente clone is trellised to a modified version of Geneva Double Curtain (GDC.) The hills & valley floor of the vineyard consist of the traditional sandy loam Goldridge soil that is most prominent in the Sonoma Valley and Russian River Valley appellations. The vines are planted in sandy loam Goldridge soil allowing for excellent drainage from this hilltop vineyard. The vineyard is certified Sonoma County Sustainably-Farmed and Fish-Friendly. It is dry-farmed and historically produces grapes of consistent character.

THE WINEMAKING

Dutton Palms is crafted with 100% barrel fermentation, and 100% malolactic fermentation, just the way Tracy Dutton likes it. This Chardonnay was aged in once-used French oak, specifically Francois Freres barrels. Although the oak component plays a role in the wine, Green Valley in known for its complexity in Chardonnay, which shines through with Dutton Palms.

TASTING NOTES

Deep straw in color, the nose is very tropical: citrus, orange cutie, rounded out with Granny Smith apple. The palate is a smooth entry with medium acid, a true, full and balanced Russian River Chardonnay. Notes of citrus follow through, primarily tangerine, along with nuances of pecan and a little sweet vanilla at the finish from oak influence.