Lot 481 | 2023 Russian River Valley Chardonnay 750ml

We’ve secured a second pristine Russian River Valley Chardonnay from what winemakers are calling a “vintage of a lifetime” in California (don’t just take our word for it, you can Google it for yourselves). This 2023 white beauty also happens to be sourced from one of the most recognized producers in the state, never mind Sonoma.   Lot 481 is a 100% single-vineyard Chardonnay from a Russian River Valley site that’s been under the same stewardship for decades. Folks lucky enough to get their hands on this allocation-only release have the good fortune of ponying up $60/bottle, $720/case before shipping charges. However, heeding market headwinds and grappling with 2023’s monster yields had our source much more willing than usual to give us a golden opportunity for a deal and quietly take some for ourselves. Skip the lines, the markups, and the red tape...   Our price: $24/bottle.   From the southern end of the Russian River Valley, the wind rushes across the Petaluma Gap (a saddle in the Coast Range), holding the fog at bay and keeping the vines in precious sunlight. In this stiff, almost constant wind, the grapes develop thick skins, resulting in richly complex expressions. Throw in 2023’s historically late harvest (which afforded multiple weeks of extra hang time), and the result is mind-bogglingly deep fruit accompanied by the excellent acidity for which this appellation is renowned.   Planted to sandy clam loam soils, individual blocks from the estate vineyard grow to their maximum potential before the fruit is picked, pressed, fermented, and aged separately, then artfully blended just before bottling. Each block rested in a barrel program of 100% French oak with 30% new wood, creating a wonderful expression of both taste and texture.   An elegant nose of yellow apple, lemon oils, and honeysuckle is haloed by wet gravel and lemon blossom. A deftly weighted palate with medium acidity, a rounder structure, and spice is all wrapped around florals and further lemon oil. The finish is uplifted, with a touch of spice and delicate vanilla blossoms fading into a fresh-baked brioche that lingers with surprising length. 14.4% alc