Wine Enthusiast – 94 Points
This wine’s Honeycrisp apple and Applejacks cereal scents lead the nose before bold layers of luxurious texture confirm its complexity and overall appeal on the palate. Densely packed with flavor, it also shows plenty of structure to support its powerful range. Dec/2017 —Virginie Boone
James Suckling – 93 Points
A fresh and lemony chardonnay with stone and sliced apple undertones. Full body, delicious fruit and a tangy acidity but always dense and flavorful. Agile. Drink now. —jamessuckling.com
Description
The 2015 Patz & Hall Chardonnay from Dutton Ranch is a superb embodiment of the meticulous craftsmanship and terroir-driven approach that defines Patz & Hall’s winemaking philosophy. Planted in the cool-climate Russian River Valley, Dutton Ranch has long been recognized for producing Chardonnay grapes of exceptional quality, and this vintage is no exception.
In the glass, the Chardonnay reveals a brilliant golden hue, offering a glimpse into the richness within. The nose is an intricate tapestry of aromas, with notes of ripe orchard fruits, such as juicy pear and golden apple, mingling with hints of citrus blossom and a subtle touch of toasty oak.
On the palate, the 2015 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay unfolds with grace and complexity. Luscious flavors of tropical fruits, like pineapple and mango, intermingle with nuances of vanilla and a delicate thread of minerality. The wine’s creamy texture is balanced by vibrant acidity, creating a harmonious and lingering finish.
The Dutton Ranch, renowned for its diverse soils and well-established vines, imparts a sense of place to this Chardonnay. The 2015 vintage, marked by optimal weather conditions, allowed the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness, resulting in a wine that beautifully captures the essence of the Russian River Valley.
This Chardonnay is a true reflection of the partnership between Patz & Hall and Dutton Ranch, showcasing a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to producing wines of exceptional character and elegance.
PATZ & HALL Chardonnay Dutton Ranch Russian River is a renowned wine that carries a rich history rooted in the picturesque region of Russian River Valley, California. The story of this exceptional Chardonnay begins with the collaboration of two passionate wine enthusiasts, Donald Patz and James Hall.
In the late 1980s, Patz and Hall, both working in the wine industry, shared a common vision to create single-vineyard wines that reflected the distinct terroir of their origin. Inspired by the fertile soils and cool climate of Russian River Valley, they set out to establish their winery.
Dutton Ranch, a historic and esteemed vineyard in the region, became a cornerstone of their winemaking journey. The unique combination of well-drained soils, foggy mornings, and warm afternoons offered the ideal conditions for growing premium Chardonnay grapes. This partnership between PATZ & HALL and Dutton Ranch produced exceptional fruit that translated into exceptional wines.
With meticulous vineyard management and a focus on sustainable farming practices, PATZ & HALL crafted Chardonnays that captured the essence of Dutton Ranch. The wines are known for their expressive aromas of citrus, tropical fruits, and subtle oak, coupled with a vibrant acidity and a luxurious texture.
Over the years, PATZ & HALL Chardonnay Dutton Ranch Russian River has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following. It has become a benchmark for high-quality Chardonnay from Russian River Valley, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication of Patz and Hall.
Today, PATZ & HALL continues to honor the legacy of Dutton Ranch through their commitment to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of this celebrated vineyard and the Russian River Valley. The Chardonnay from Dutton Ranch remains a testament to the enduring passion and vision of Patz and Hall, and a true representation of the artistry of winemaking in California’s wine country.
