Growing Conditions

Located on the rolling hillsides on the eastern edge of the Russian River Valley, El Diablo Vineyard has gained a much-deserved reputation as a world-class Chardonnay site. Planted to a variety of soils, clones and exposures, the wines that come from El Diablo are complex, elegant and refined.

2018 was truly a winemakers’ vintage, and the quality of the resulting wines presents itself in bottle. Generous rainfall in February led to a late budbreak and extended flowering period. Beautiful and mild weather throughout spring and summer made for a healthy crop load. With no major heat spikes or weather events in the fall, winemakers were able to patiently wait to pick at optimal fruit ripeness.

Winemaking

A savory wine resulting from the small- berried Wente clone Chardonnay at this iconic Russian River site, the 2018 El Diablo Vineyard Chardonnay marries richness and acidity to mouthwatering effect. Caramel and crème brûlee notes lead into a honey-kissed palate, with lemon-oil notes, white peach and macadamia nut carrying through its lengthy finish.

Aging

100% Barrel Fermentation; Full Malolactic; aged 11 months in 45% new French Oak