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Ritchie Vineyard

2018 CHARDONNAY
AVA: Russian River
Vineyard: Ritchie Vineyard
Winemaker: Jeff Ames
Cooperage: 10 Months French Oak, François Freres, Saury

Ritchie Vineyard – Farmed by proprietor Kent Ritchiesince 1972, thisvineyard produces wine of rare intensity and complexity. With old vines tucked into sloping benchlands that lead into the Russian River, the Ritchievineyard lies in the heartof the Russian River Valley appellation.Agreat balance of cooling ocean fog and slightly warmer inland temperatures produce wines with intense, natural aciditywithan extra richness and lushness. SandyGoldridgesoils combined with volcanic ash deposits provide great drainage while limiting vine vigorand yield.

Russian River AVA – Centered on Sonoma County’s Russian River, this AVAset the standard for California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals.Known for its characteristically cool climate, ocean influence blowsthrough the Petaluma Gap,bringingfoggy nights graciously soaked up by the vines. The central region of the Russian River AVA fosters ripe fruit with rich mouthfeel and bright acidity, producing some of the best Chardonnay in the world.

Vintage Notes – With a cooler start than previous years, 2018 brought moderate temperatures and a long growing seasonto the Russian River Valley. An even-keeled spring resulted inexcellent fruit set and generous cluster counts, whilefew summer heat spikesallowed for increased hangtime and thedevelopment ofmore intense flavors. A truly exceptional vintage for Sonoma coast Chardonnay.

WineMaker Notes – Bursting with perfumed white peach, roman chamomileand wildflower honey, the flirtatious 2018 Ritchie has a creamy and elegant presence on the nose. The palate is elevated and textured with both stone fruit and citrus rind followed by white flower and crèmebrûléenotes on the finish. There is a strength here but a lifted acidity as well, making the chardonnay a truly remarkable wine.

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