2017 Joseph Swan Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard | Russian River Valley, Sonoma County California 750ml

Ritchie Vineyard has always been known for its voluptuous wines and this one is no exception. Harvest from the older vines is often delayed. When sampling the grapes as harvest nears it is almost as if they are telling you to be a little more patient. The numbers are great and the flavors are nice but it often takes a bit of a longer wait before the hallmark Ritchie richness is apparent. It was barrel fermented in French Oak, about 1/3 of which was new, in order to tame some of its voluptuous fruit, and bottled after 14 months of aging on its lees. Bold, rich, ripe aromas of baked spiced apple and Asian pear lead to flavors echoing the aromatics with a complement of grilled hazelnut. A wine to drink on its own or to pair with poached scallops, grilled chicken or even pork tenderloin. (with ginger and toasted sesame?) | Joseph Swan Vineyards, 2021 Winter Newsletter