Chardonnay

Russian River Valley - Starr Ridge Vineyards

Starr Ridge Vineyard includes approximately three acres of Chardonnay. Chardonnay selections at Starr Ridge Vineyard include Dijon clones 95 and 96. Clone 95 produces very small clusters and berries; thus a high skin to juice ratio. Wines produced from this clone often display amazing flavor intensely and tremendous structure. Clone 96 has slightly larger clusters and berries and tends to produce more fleshy, viscous wines. Though fermented separately to evaluate their individual attributes, the combination of these clones often produces the most complex and complete wine.

Russian River Valley - Rochioli / Allen Vineyards

This is always our finest blended Chardonnay wine, produced from the highly acclaimed Rochioli Vineyard and neighboring Allen Vineyard. Both properties are farmed under the watchful eye and meticulous guidance of Joe Rochioli, Jr., whose efforts in the vineyard are deserving of the credit for this designated offering.

Russian River Valley - Westside Farms

Perhaps it is the spirit and integrity of the owners, which is reflected in the generous and giving nature of the fruit grown on Westside Farms. Wines produced from this vineyard are always honest and true to the varietal and to the region from which they are grown. This is "textbook" Russian River Valley in its composition and fruit profile, and has rapidly become one of our most coveted sources for Chardonnay.

Russian River Valley - Cresta Ridge Vineyards

Planted in 1999, this 20-acre block is located in Sebastopol. a sub-appellation of Green Valley. Four acres are planted to Chardonnay, Dijon clones 95 and 76. These clones were selected for their favorable flavor profiles, small clusters and berry size and moderate yields.

Santa Barbara County - Bien Nacido Vineyard

The opportunity to produce cool climate Chardonnay with a very different (but highly desirable) flavor profile to our Russian River Valley Chardonnay proved irresistible especially considering the grapes originate from one of the finest sections of their vineyard.

Similar to our own Russian River Valley climate, the Santa Maria Valley provides an avenue for the fog and marine influence to dramatically cool the region during the late spring and summer months, making it a perfect location for growing superior Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.