2021 Ramey Rochioli Vineyard Chardonnay Russian River Valley

David Ramey has an extremely dense resume, with a history of winemaking at Matanzas Creek, Chalk Hill, Dominus, and Rudd all before founding Ramey Wine Cellars. The wines made at Ramey are classic California, showcasing a purity of fruit with the classic weighty profile that every California wine drinker craves. The Russian River Chardonnay is sourced from cool-climate vineyards through the Valley, and the results speak for themselves.

"David Ramey doesn't get anywhere near the attention he deserves. Today, it seems the focus is on extremes as the wine world is increasingly about a polarization of so-called 'very ripe' wines versus the more 'restrained' style. Ramey's wines are neither, but rather bring together the best of both schools of thought. The Chardonnays combine distinctly Californian expressions of site with Burgundian concepts of aging where the wines spend a full 18 months in barrel, something that is rarely seen in this country. The results speak for themselves. These are among the very best Chardonnays being made in California." - Antonio Galloni on Ramey

David’s groundbreaking work with indigenous yeasts, sur lies aging, whole-cluster pressing, and malolactic and barrel fermentation yielded a new California style that was richer, more lush, and silky smooth than previously known. As a result, he created a benchmark style now emulated by many. 

Few wineries have the honor of making a Rochioli Vineyard wine. Most are turned down, but mutual respect and a shared legacy of quality forged a unique partnership between the two families. The Rochioli family has been growing grapes on their estate since the late 1950s, with the third generation now tending the vineyards.

The 2021 Rochioli blend is a reflection of this rich heritage, composed of 82% from the Mid-40 block and 18% from the River block. The Mid-40 block features Clones 5, planted in 1995, and 76, planted in 1995 and 1998. The River block showcases Clone 5, planted in 1989. The result is a wine that captures the essence of the Russian River Valley and the Rochioli family's long-standing tradition of excellence.

Aging: 20 months in 20% new French oak barrels.

100% Chardonnay. Aromatically the wine jumps out of the glass with notes of white flowers, Asian pears, and green apple. On the palate, the wine is beautifully balanced, with a wonderful richness to it from the ripe fruit characteristics and an underlying minerality.

Layered, elegant, vivid and mineral-driven, this full-bodied wine paints a distinct picture of one of Sonoma County’s oldest, most iconic chardonnay vineyards. Stone, kiwi and crisp apple notes fill the aromas, while light accents of butter and vanilla bean highlight the vibrant green apple and lime flavors. It expands on the palate and echoes for minutes in the finish. This wine is known to age well, so drink or hold. ~97 James Suckling

Elegant and precise, this crisp expression offers plenty to admire -- apple, lemon zest and Sumo orange notes, plus an aromatic punch of yuzu, orange blossoms and sweet grass. A quiet toasted brioche detail lingers in the background, as does a savory thread of freshly grated ginger and toasted green tea hints. Drink now through 2032. 774 cases made. ~95 Wine Spectator

The 2021 Chardonnay Rochioli Vineyard is bright and focused, but also understated in feel. Sweet floral and citrus notes give the 2021 lovely aromatic presence to match the wine's understated, mid-weight personality. Bright saline tones add energy and tension throughout. Lemon peel, white pepper and crushed rocks linger. ~93 Vinous Media

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