Winemaker Michael Zardo started getting this fruit in 2012 after pestering Kent Ritchie for access starting in 2010. Multiple coopers, daily lees stirring during primary fermentation, minimal sulfur and native yeasts all contribute to a very expressive nose of layered apple, peach, light tropical fruit and leaf notes. On the palate, easy oak spice joins the mix, and bright acidity carries the malolactic weight well and stretches the finish.
Ten Acre Winery, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay 2016
By Rich Cook