Dutton-Goldfield 2005 Chardonnay, Dutton Ranch

Vineyard Notes:
Dutton Ranch farms over sixty unique, separate vineyards located in the coolest areas of the Russian River Valley, primarily in the Green Valley appellation. Dan and Steve select their favorite Dutton Ranch vineyards to craft a wine reflecting our vision of classic Russian River Valley Chardonnay. The vineyards we choose are based on our desire to offer wines with fruit intensity, great acid structure and richness, even after full barrel and malolactic fermentation.

Mill Station, Rued, Schwartz and Sullivan are all old vine (greater than 30 years), old clone vineyards located in the cold heart of Green Valley. They provide the beautiful citrus backbone, spicy floral nose, and tropical and mineral overtones of this offering. Morelli Lane Vineyard, planted to the Hyde clone of Chardonnay, is located high on top of Stoetz Ridge on the west side of the valley, and contributes notes of stone fruit and pear to the wine.

Winemaker Tasting Notes:
2005 was a textbook year for our old chardonnay vineyards. We had an early budbreak and great vine growth from late spring rains. Flowering weather was perfect for the chards, followed by a cool summer and excellent, dry late harvest weather. The gift of the season was obvious in fruit with ripe flavors, good acidity, moderate sugar and no rot. The resulting wine shows what we love about Dutton Ranch Chard. In the nose the classic lemon cream pie jumps out, with overtones of caraway seed, ginger and a touch of tangerine. In the mouth its core of citrus fruit and bright acid is nestled in a setting of creamy ginger spice that provides a beautiful balance and lingering finish.

Food Pairing Notes:
This is a wine of great versatility: enjoy it as an aperitif, or with rich and creamy foods that benefit from a focused, refreshing counterpoint.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Russian River Valley- Green Valley
Vineyards:	Mill Station, Morelli Lane, Rued, Schwartz, Sullivan
Alcohol:	13.5%
pH:	3.39
Months in Barrel:	10
Barrels:	French Oak (40% New)
Cases Produced:	3,389
Winemaker:	Dan Goldfield