VINEYARD El Diablo, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES Montrachet, Robert Young, Wente
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Spreckels loam
FERMENTATION 100% barrel; 100% whole cluster direct press
ÉLEVAGE 32% new French oak for 12 months, then 6 months in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 13.8%
pH 3.44
TA 5.08 g/L
AROMA
Stunning and delicate. Notes of green apple, honeycomb, crushed walnuts, and baking spices.
PALATE
Glossy and creamy rich palate with a long finish. Crème Brulé with a hint of lemon meringue.
El Diablo Vineyard was planted in 2008 along the eastern rim of the Russian River Valley. Foggy mornings give way to sun-soaked afternoons, and the hillside rising to 500’ elevation is studded with tightly spaced vines and focused yields of exceptional quality.
Our 2023 El Diablo was 100% whole cluster pressed and barrel fermented, creating the classic texture of luxurious California chardonnay. The cellar team foot-treads the chardonnay clusters, briefly breaking the skins before pressing and adding a unique complexity and depth to the wine. The 2023 El Diablo was aged for 12 months in oak, followed by an additional six months in stainless steel, resulting in a Chardonnay with beautiful vibrancy and refined structure. A stunning wine of delicate aroma, gracefully unfolding with notes of green apple, honeycomb, crushed walnuts, and a whisper of baking spices.
On the palate, it offers a glossy, creamy richness that envelops the senses; flavors of crème brûlée take center stage, elegantly accented by a bright hint of lemon meringue, creating a harmonious balance of opulence and freshness, leading into a long, lingering finish.
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.
With soaring aromas and pure, exquisite flavors, these are incredible wines from a not-to-be-missed vintage.
– Julien Howsepian
