VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES Hyde
SOIL Goldridge fine sandy loam
FERMENTATION 100% barrel; 100% whole cluster direct press.
ÉLEVAGE 27% new French oak & 73% neutral oak for 11 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for seven months in stainless steel.
ALCOHOL 14.2%
pH 3.31
TA 5.85 g/L
AROMA
Cantaloupe rind, baking spice, and wet stone.
Palate
Soft and rich, with a fresh, lingering finish.
Bootlegger’s Hill is a Chardonnay made entirely from the Hyde clone, grown on the western edge of the Russian River Valley. At 750 feet, the site rises above the fog that pools on the valley floor, sitting in clear sun on Goldridge sandy loam.
Whole-cluster pressed and fermented in barrel, the 2024 Bootlegger’s Hill Chardonnay aged 11 months in 27% new French oak, then for seven months in stainless steel.
It’s bright and mineral-driven with notes of cantaloupe rind, baking spice, and wet stone. The palate is soft and rich, with a fresh, 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
