Fall Release Lorenzo Vineyard Chardonnay
2024
Winemaker’s Notes
Lorenzo Chardonnay is dynamic, compelling, and singular – every vintage, without fail. It possesses the effortless quality that typifies the world's greatest vineyards. The secret lies in old vines planted on dense, swelling clay soils in a cold, low-lying, foggy location. They infuse the wine with such detail and complexity that each vintage is intellectually and emotionally thrilling. It was a small crop in 2024, so only seven barrels were produced – unfortunately not much to go around. The wine's natural style is laser-focused, slightly leaner than both Chloe and DuMOL Estate, with nuances of mint and savory botanicals. It can show some natural steeliness in its first year but unfurls beautifully with a little age. I always recommend drinking Lorenzo over two evenings or giving it an hour's gentle decant.
The wine’s aromas and flavors feature fresh green herbs, pear, almond, chamomile, and lime juice. There’s obvious power and density, but it’s tightly coiled, brisk, and almost saline. Wave upon wave of deep vineyard character carries the wine to an extended finish of rich lemon and lime fruit, with a fresh note of sea spray. Unique and profound.
"A tense mineral- and citrus-driven wine, showing aromas of white blossoms and chalk with bright, juicy acidity and a hint of saltiness and creme brulee in the finish. From vines planted in 1974. Drink or hold." - Courtney Humiston, James Suckling
“The 2024 Chardonnay Lorenzo Vineyard is one of the standouts in this range. It offers a beguiling mix of saline intensity and textural breadth that is absolutely captivating. Vertical in build with stunning energy, the Lorenzo has it all. This grows impressively with air, culminating in an explosive, palate-staining finish. These vines planted in 1974 have long produced some of the most distinctive Chardonnays in California.” - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Vineyard
Harvest Date
September 3
Appellation
Russian River Valley
Clones
Heritage
Age of Vines at Harvest
50 years
Barrel Aging
Aged 11 months in 28% new French oak barrels
Production
175 cases of 750mL
Press
98 James Suckling
96 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Palate
95-97 Antonio Galloni, Vinous