2005 DuMOL Chardonnay Russian River Valley

The 2005 Chardonnay Russian River offers a terrific introduction to this estate’s Burgundian winemaking style. A 3,200-case blend of fruit from the Heintz, Ritchie, and Dutton vineyards, it boasts fabulous fruit along with hints of lemon oil, orange blossoms, tropical fruit, subtle smoky oak, and crushed rocks. This fresh, lively effort appears to be the finest Russian River Chardonnay DuMol has yet produced. As I said last year, DuMol is one of my favorite wineries, primarily because of the passion and commitment to quality of owner Kerry Murphy and his winemaker, Andy Smith. Previously recommended: 2003 Chardonnay Chloe (94+), 2003 Chardonnay Isobel (94), 2003 Pinot Noir Finn (93), 2003 Pinot Noir Ryan (90+), 2003 Syrah Eddie’s Patch (95). Tel. (925) 254-8922; Fax (925) 254-8942