Spring Release Wester Reach Chardonnay
2018
Winemaker’s Notes
Our 2018 Wester Reach Chardonnay comprises three of the most celebrated old-vine Chardonnay vineyards in California with our high-density estate vineyard at its core. A classic DuMOL coastal Russian River wine, it maintains an impeccable balance between fruit-filled Californian style and a vibrant, focused European approach—an interplay of richness and freshness, texture and acidity.
From one of the greatest vintages in modern Californian history, the wine possesses inherent concentration, depth and definition—focused, driven, mineral-laden and pithy with a level of cool-climate fruit intensity and presence that is very rare. Such a distinctive character is typically achieved only in small-lot single-vineyard wines. The quality of this blend is a testament to our pedigreed vineyards, precise farming, twenty years’ experience and patient, sensitive craftsmanship.
The nose brims with expansive aromas of white lily, apricot, stone fruits and lemon zest underscored by elements of flint, oyster shell and spearmint. The palate delivers a long, subtle arc of flavor and great viscosity. It is initially taut and vibrant with lime juice, lemongrass and citrus oil before opening to richer, deeper fruits, fig and peach, and layers of texture. The finish washes long with bright, clean acidity and a linger of ginger, honey and spice.
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Vineyard
31% Dutton Ranch Hansen Hill Vineyard
26% DuMOL O’Connell Estate Vineyard
16% Ritchie Vineyard
Harvest Date
hand harvested september 4th through october 10th.
Appellation
Russian River Valley
Clones
old wente selection, hyde wente selection & clone 4
Age of Vines at Harvest
44 years
Barrel Aging
fermented & aged 12 months in 35% light/medium toast new french oak followed by three months settling in tank. complete malolactic fermentation.
Production
3,352 cases of 750mL