Girard '22 Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch Chardonnay

This 2022 Russian River Valley Chardonnay showcases the region’s renowned cool-climate characteristics, resulting in a vibrant and well-balanced wine offering a harmonious interplay between ripe fruit flavors and refreshing acidity. Orchard fruits such as golden apple and yellow pear, are complemented by delicate citrus blossom aromas. On the palate, subtle hints of vanilla and toasty oak, add depth and complexity. The mouthfeel is smooth and rounded, with a medium body and a satisfyingly long finish.

The 2022 vintage started off drier than usual, followed by unprecedented weather including hail in May, heat spikes in September, followed by rain. Despite these challenges, we persevered. Harvest started in early August, and the flurry of activity didn’t let up until all the grapes were off the vine. It was an exciting vintage, challenging our winemaking
team with another year of lower than desired yields. Our winemaking team transformed the meager yields into wines with refreshing acidity, as well as striking balance of flavor and mouthfeel. Wines from this vintage are marked by freshness, opulence, intensity, and elegance, all at the same time.

Sourced from the Mill Station Dutton Ranch vineyard in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma. These vineyards have garnered international acclaim for producing world-class Chardonnay with exciting varietal character. While Girard is primarily known for crafting Napa Valley wines, we decided long ago to produce some Chardonnay from the best parts of the Russian River Valley; its climate and soils impart distinctive acidity, minerality, and balance which further elevate the noble grape.