2017 Dry Creek Vineyard Chardonnay DCV Estate Block 10 Russian River Valley

Richness, ripeness, restraint

2017 Dry Creek Vineyard Chardonnay DCV Estate Block 10 Russian River Valley

This estate Chardonnay is a selection from just 30 rows of fruit. The grapes were whole-cluster pressed and barrel fermented, and the wine aged in French oak barrels, about one-quarter new. Sixty percent underwent malolactic fermentation; 1,300 cases were made.

It’s quieter than I expected given those vinification and élevage protocols. The lightly herbal fragrance tops a suggestion of pineapple and lemon, and the palate is clean — not bracing, although it does offer a grassy snap in the middle. The texture is substantial but not creamy, and overall the barrel spice notes remain in check. It’s a good example of California Chardonnay that offers richness with restraint.

2017 Dry Creek Vineyard Chardonnay DCV Estate Block 10 Russian River Valley

14.1% abv | $34 (sample)

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