The 2011 Russian River Chardonnay is 30% from three different Dutton ranches, 29% from three Martinelli vineyards, 14% King, 10% Rochioli Vineyards, 8% Forchini, 3% Green Pastures (a 42-year-old Wente vineyard back Felta Creek Road), and in this vintage Ramey declassified a bit of Hyde (6%) into the Russian River blend. Ramey’s Russian River appellation Chardonnay is made in an identical style to their single vineyard chardonnays, except they are given less new oak and spend less time in barrel. This Chardonnay offers a pretty nose of Korean butter pear, wet stones, vanilla and fresh citrus notes, which lead to a richly textured, yet crisp palate. This is kept fresh and inviting by fantastic acidity and a bright finish, which leaves behind delicious flavors of pear and a hint of vanilla. A wonderful Chardonnay from Ramey. (Best 2014-2020)

Ramey Chardonnay 2011, Russian River Valley. 14.5% alc. Pale gold; ineffable weaving of grapefruit and pineapple, Golden Delicious apple, cloves, ginger and quince; very dry but juicy and savory; lovely heft and texture, lithe and supple, almost talc-like but riven and balanced by bright acidity. Now through 2016 or ’17. Excellent. About $40.

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Vivid gold.  More exotic than the Sonoma Coast bottling, displaying scents of passion fruit, poached pear, honey and almond paste.  Then surprisingly taut and focused on the palate, displaying fresh tangerine and tropical fruit flavors and a bracing kick of bitter quinine.  Plays richness off of vivacity smoothly and finishes supple, spicy and very long, with an echo of ripe pear.

Among these, the appellation wines are more direct in character and less concentrated than the vineyard designates, but they are not ‘lesser’ wines. The Russian River version is exceptional: ripe, supple, and refined in character; a Chardonnay with excellent balance and length, and long flavor persistence (white peach, apple, lime blossom, pineapple, pink grapefruit). The best version yet of this wine, and a particularly good value!

Medium-light golden yellow color; attractive, spicy, baked apple aroma with a hint of cinnamon; medium-full body; slightly fleshy, crisp apple and pear flavors with good depth and intensity; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended.