VINEYARD El Diablo, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES Montrachet, Robert Young, Wente
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Spreckels loam
FERMENTATION 100% barrel, 100% whole cluster direct press
ÉLEVAGE 34% new French oak for 12 months, prior to bottling 100% stainless steel for 6 months
ALCOHOL 13.5%
pH 3.43
TA 6.75 g/L
AROMA
Expressive aromas of honeysuckle, kiwi, and orange peel with a touch of oak.
PALATE
Impressively focused with an exceptional depth of flavor and medium acidity. Apricot, crème brûlée, and a hint of vanilla enhance the beautifully round palate.
Planted in 2008, El Diablo Vineyard has an average elevation of 500 feet. This tightly spaced vineyard encourages competition between the vines for a fixed amount of nutrients, resulting in reduced yields and exemplary quality.
Our 2021 El Diablo Chardonnay was fermented exclusively in barrel with 100% whole clusters for added complexity and aged in 34% new French oak for 12 months. This wine has beautiful harmony and is impressively expressive, highlighting honeysuckle, kiwi, orange peel, and lemon. A pleasant contrast of freshness and opulence unfolds with increasing layers of apricot and crème brûlée that carry the Chardonnay to a pleasantly precise finish.
Fact of Note: The El Diablo Chardonnay was direct pressed with 100% whole clusters.
THE RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY IS hallowed ground for lovers of great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Here, the vines are submersed in clockwork fog and daytime temperature swings, which preserve the natural acidity essential to elegant, age-worthy wines. We work with a handful of the most beloved vineyards from this remarkable wine region considered by many to be the heartland of California Pinot Noir.
Within Russian River Valley, in a town tucked away from the main roads, you’ll find a community ranging from writer to artisan. The town of Graton is an area where local winemakers and growers take a respite and enjoy some of the many popular yet under-the-radar restaurants. During harvest, the little town is full of life and bustling.
