DeLoach Single Vineyard Chardonnay Wines
This is the perfect season for Chardonnay. The chill of winter is still with us, which means we are still eating hearty fare with rich sauces. However, the prospect of spring is almost upon us, which means white wines will soon be able to be enjoyed on our decks, patios and boats.
Single vineyard wines are a wonderful way to begin to appreciate the subtle differences that terroir brings to a wine. While each of these wines is made from 100% Chardonnay, the characteristics that each vineyard imparts to the wine can make the difference between liking it and loving it. Here are a few different single vineyard Chardonnays from DeLoach that are worth trying.
To truly study the differences, select a few, chill them to 50-55F, and pour a taste of each into clean wine glasses. A Coravin is a perfect way to enjoy a tasting of multiple wines without wasting a drop.
DeLoach 2019 Russian River Valley Vineyard Chardonnay
The Hawk Hill Vineyard is situated in the far southwest corner of the Russian River Valley at an old stage coach stop. The vineyard hangs onto a steep south-facing hillside, bathed by regular fog cycles and coastal wind. Minerality and acidity are preserved in this climate, deftly complementing the richness captured from our winemaking.
The 2017 Hawk Hill Chardonnay opens with a bouquet of green apple, white peach, and honeysuckle aromas. This medium-bodied Chardonnay showcases rich flavors of nectarine and lemon zest, and has a long lingering finish. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, 20% new, for 11 months and undergoes 100% Malolactic fermentation before being bottled unfiltered. This will pair well with Rich Seafood Dishes, Chicken with creamy sauces and nuts.
Appellation: Green Valley of the Russian River Valley
Alcohol: 15%. pH: 3.36. Titratable Acidity: 6.2 g/L
Aging: 100% French oak, 20% new 11 Months in Barrel
Not currently available
DeLoach 2017
Ritchie Vineyard
With its beautiful old vines nestled on a rolling northwest facing hillside in the heart of the Russian River Valley, the Ritchie Vineyard commands respect. The wines often exhibit a rare complexity and intensity that has spawned a legion of loyal Ritchie followers.
This wine is beautifully golden in the glass and opens with aromas of warm Asian pear with a touch of soft spice. On the palate there are rich flavors of ripe apple and hazelnut balanced with notes of vanilla and crisp lemon. The wine is creamy with bright, medium plus acidity.
A blend of two Chardonnay clones contributes to the unique character of this wine: the Musqué clone yields fruit of delightful floral and sweet spice nuance, while the Wente clone imparts texture and multi-dimensional layers of fruit.
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Alcohol: 14.5% pH: 3.48, TA: 5.8 g/l
Aged in Oak: 100%, 20% New French Oak, 14 Months
Not currently available
DeLoach 2017
Heintz Vineyard
Heintz Vineyard sits atop a ridge at 900 feet in the Green Valley area of the Russian River Valley. Its gently sloping sides are rich in sandy loam with two to three feet of topsoil followed by layers of clay. Optimal growing conditions and careful vineyard management result in a luscious, mouthwatering, full-bodied Chardonnay with lots of depth.
Delightful aromas of ripe Fuji apple and stone fruit mingle with hints of ginger spice in our 2015 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay. Creamy flavors of Asian pear, nectarine and a touch of marzipan coat the palate. Rich and full-bodied with defined structure and balanced acidity, this layered Chardonnay offers a pleasingly long, lingering finish.
Crafted using traditional Burgundian techniques, hand picking, sorting, and whole-cluster basket pressing preserve the rich, natural flavors. Barrel fermentation and sur lie aging lend firmness and palate richness, establishing structure for this wine to retain depth and complexity for several years.
Appellation: Green Valley of Russian River Valley
Alcohol: 14.5% ABV, pH: 3.28, TA: 7.30 g/L
Aged in 100% French oak, 30% new for 14 months
Price:$52
Wine Society: :$41.60
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