VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES Hyde, Hudson
ORIENTATION North/East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge fine sandy loam
FERMENTATION 100% barrel, 100% whole cluster pressed
ÉLEVAGE 33% new French oak & 67% neutral oak for 11 months, then 100% of the blend was aged in stainless steel for 6 months.
ALCOHOL 14.2%
pH 3.3
TA 6.26 g/L
AROMA
Enchanting aromas of stone fruit, poached pear, and brioche with hints of cinnamon and wet stone.
PALATE
Brilliant layers of lime zest and dried apricot meld with a sleek minerality, leading to a crisp, enduring finish.
The 2022 growing season unfolded with warm temperatures and naturally low yields, allowing the vines to concentrate their energy into producing fruit of remarkable intensity. This vintage reflects the playful generosity of the season, delivering wines with soaring flavors and a polished energy that speaks to each vineyard’s unique character.
Planted in 2009, our 30-acre Bootlegger’s Hill Estate Vineyard rises above the fog line at an elevation of 750 feet, rooted in the ancient seabed soils of the Russian River Valley. Made from the renowned Hyde and Hudson clones and set in sandy-loam Goldridge soils, this exceptional vineyard continues to produce wines celebrated for its depth, clarity, and profound sense of place.
Meticulously crafted, this mineral-driven Chardonnay was 100% whole-cluster-pressed and fermented entirely in barrel. Following 11 months of aging in 33% new French oak, the wine spent an additional six months in stainless steel, preserving its elegant verve and freshness.
Fact of Note: 71% of the new oak came from puncheon.
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.
