Winemaker’s Notes

This is our 25th vintage of Chloe Chardonnay – time absolutely does fly. This two-vineyard blend has always focused on the central Russian River Valley district to highlight the richest side of DuMOL Chardonnay. The wine has slightly lower acidity than our coastal wines, making it more approachable in its youth, with flavors leaning toward ripe orchard fruit rather than zesty citrus. I always recommend Chloe as the first of our designate Chardonnays to open each vintage, since its texture is deep, generous, and mouth-filling. The blend combines the opulent fruit richness of Flora Marie, from the warmer central Russian River hills, with vines from the top of our Bressay Estate that contribute oily texture and waxy, honeyed fruit. The wine can be enjoyed on release but will age positively in bottle for eight years. 

The wine's aromas and flavors feature white nectarine, peach, and apricot, alongside honeysuckle, ginger, and beeswax notes. There's a line of rich lemon curd that develops as the wine opens. It's immediately opulent and broad, with obvious concentration and depth that resonates through to a long, chewy finish. Lively acidity allows the wine's character to gently linger. 

“The 2024 Chardonnay Chloe blends 45% fruit from the top of the vineyard with the remainder from Eastside Road. Peach, apricot, citrus length, silky hazelnut, and Damy oak texture all emerge beautifully with excellent viscosity and drive.” - Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck 

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner