2011 DuMOL Chardonnay Russian River Valley

The 2011 Chardonnay Russian River is a blend from some of the finest Sonoma vineyards, including Ritchie, Lorenzo, Hyde, DuMol and Heintz. Largely made from the Old Wente clone of Chardonnay blended with some of the Mt. Eden clone, it was barrel-fermented and aged 14 months on its lees with no lees stirring and only about 30% new French oak used. A light green/straw color is followed by terrific aromas of white peaches, pineapples, brioche, and a hint of creme brulee. Full-bodied with beautiful purity and texture, it is the equal of any Chardonnay selling for twice the price. It should drink well for 5+ years. Since its founding in 1996, DuMol has been one of the superstar wineries of the entire California North Coast. They primarily focus on gorgeous Burgundian-styled Chardonnays from cool micro-climates as well as Pinot Noirs, with the added attraction of one Viognier and one or two Syrahs. They have been consistent from the beginning with winemaker Andy Smith, who has a brilliant record not only at DuMol, but at several other estates where he is the full-time winemaker, particularly the Napa Valley estate of Larkmead, just north of St. Helena. All five 2011 Chardonnays I tasted merit serious attention from consumers. Forget the difficulties of this vintage as DuMol came through with flying colors. All of the 2011 Pinot Noirs were harvested before the heavy rains fell in October, except for the Cuvee Ian, which was completely declassified. The three vintages of Syrah Eddie’s Patch I tasted come from a vineyard called Hoppe-Kelly, which is planted in red soils southeast of Healdsburg, near Chalk Hill. Tel. (925) 254-8922