Fall Release Ritchie Vineyard Chloe Chardonnay
2011

Winemaker’s Notes

The most powerful of our RRV-origin Chardonnays, the 2011 Chloe is more obviously rich than isobel or estate with a typical Ritchie Vineyard fruit core that dominates centre stage. It’s a beautifully built wine that takes its time to open up and fill out, but ultimately delivers its great concentration with a subtlety and style that strikes a fine balance between richness and structure. There lots of nicely integrated old vine fruit extract on display but it’s always balanced by the vineyard’s stony, saline edge and mouthwatering freshness. I’m reminded most closely of our 2005 and 2007 Chloe bottlings which are rewarding the most patient among you with a delicious mix of trademark DuMOL richness, complexity and texture. Given the balanced power and intensity this wine holds, I would not be surprised to see it aging positively for up to a decade from its harvest year. This is a gorgeous wine that is not to be missed.

Brilliant in the glass, light gold color. Bright citrus, mixed orchard fruits and fresh grassy aromas open to floral, almond and orange marmalade richness. Melon, yellow peach and a fennel note open the palate but orange marmalade really dominates with time. Integrated layers of flavor and texture, creamy, rich and inviting. Power and intensity builds to a rising and expanding, acid-driven finish. Lingering almondy richness. Serve closer to 60 degrees and drink between 2013 and 2020.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner