94 Points - Publisher's Pick - The Tasting Panel & The Somm Journal

"Aged in concrete egg and French oak, this aromatic Chardonnay is blessed with scents of caramel and apricot. Edgy and sleek, it has a sense of finely tuned minerality integrated with toasty oak and spice. There’s a mid-point squeeze of lemon and a dot of thyme accented by a fine acidity."

93 Points - Planet Grape Wine Review

"Full, very silky, tingly and dry with notes of lemon ice, dried mango and pineapple, vanilla custard and nutmeg."

THE VINEYARD 

Dutton Ranch farms more than 80 separate vineyards in the Russian River Valley. To create our Russian River Valley Chardonnay, we pulled from four different vineyards with established pedigrees and are certified Sonoma County Sustainably-Farmed and Fish-Friendly. Kyndall's Reserve is part of our Sister's Selection and is a family designation wine named for Joe and Tracy's eldest daughter whose down-to-earth personality is reflected in this approachable Chardonnay. The vineyards selected for the Kyndall's Reserve range in age, some vines are up to 54 years old! This range contributes a depth of flavor and aromatics, encompassing the best of the Russian River Valley. 

THE WINEMAKING 

Kyndall’s Reserve is carefully crafted to preserve the bright fruit characteristics and acidity of true Russian River Valley chardonnay. Sebastopol Vineyards, Shop Block and Morelli Lane are night harvested on different days given their individual microclimates. The fruit from each vineyard was brought to the winery and whole cluster pressed. All fermentation vessels were utilized in this chardonnay with one third of the lots each fermenting in concrete egg, oak barrels, and stainless steel. Primary fermentation was followed by partial malolactic fermentation up to 75%. Final barrel aging took place in 40% new French Oak barrels and concrete egg before the separate vineyard blocks were blended prior to bottling.

TASTING NOTES 

This Chardonnay has a decadent nose of apricot, vanilla, and caramel notes to greet the senses. On the palate this wine bursts with flavors of apple and pear and shows the oak influence with hints of toast and baking spices - almost like your favorite apple pie! The winemaking style preserves acidity despite the rich flavors and aromas, making this a medium-bodied, food-friendly wine. A hearty salad topped with orchard fruits, barbecue chicken, or local cheese spread would certainly make this wine shine.