2021 DuMOL Wester Reach Chardonnay Russian River Valley California USA

Winemaker Notes
Our 2021 vintage of “Wester Reach” Chardonnay is a multi-layered
interpretation of this classic region where we live and farm. It includes some
of the greatest sites in the appellation—vineyards that we have planted,
farmed, and harvested for over twenty years. Comprising three of our region’s
unique sub-districts, the wine blends fruit from the valley itself with vineyards
further west, stretching out to the coolest ‘reaches’ of the appellation’s high
elevation coastal ridges. Each district contributes something unique, be it
valley-floor richness, ridgeline density or coastal vibrancy.

From the Middle Reach in the north, the broad orchard fruit generosity
of our Flax Estate centers the wine. Directly across the river, El Diablo’s
volcanic hillside emphasizes texture and density. On the Santa Rosa plain, we
layer in the old vines at the iconic Lorenzo Vineyard with their trademark
savory grapefruit intensity, and Cornerstone with its piercing acidity and
honeyed richness. As we leave the valley itself and inch towards the coast
at higher elevation on a ridgetop overlooking the Green Valley, the majestic
Heintz Ranch completes the wine with its sweet botanical and truffle-infused
complexity and savory/mineral drive.

Great aromatic intensity—citrus and nectarine fruits, jasmine and orange
blossom, briny/flinty sea spray edges. The flavors center upon lemony green
apple then deeper stone fruits with honeysuckle and ginger richness. The
wine’s texture is deep, oily, and layered. Fresh mineral, grapefruit acidity cuts
through the richness giving a pinpoint focus to the wine’s long echoing finish.
Drink between 2023 and 2027