2023 Valette "Ramey" ChardonnayRussian River Valley

Tasting Notes
The 2023 Ramey Chardonnay opens with an inviting and expressive nose of citrus blossom, petrichor, Meyer lemon, vanilla, and a whisper of fresh brioche. Hints of honeyed apple and warm cinnamon add depth and warmth. On the palate, it delivers a beautifully layered experience—bright and balanced with vibrant acidity and a rich, creamy texture. Flavors of white peach, Asian pear, and honeysuckle are complemented by subtle oak, graham cracker, and notes of buttery shortbread and crème brûlée. Ramey’s signature minerality anchors the wine, providing elegance and structure to the lingering, refined finish.

Chef Valette's Food Pairings
Dungeness Crab - Toasted Garlic & Drawn Butter
Butter Roasted Salmon - Spring Fava Beans & Morel Mushrooms
Seared Scallops - English Pea Fondue & Candied Onion Vinaigrette
Osetra Caviar - Smoked Sturgeon Creme Fraiche & Brioche

Aging and Refining
This captivating Chardonnay is a blend from five standout vineyards across the Russian River Valley, showcasing the region’s hallmark elegance and character. Whole-cluster pressed and barrel-fermented with native yeasts, it gains impressive depth and nuance. Aged for 12 months to achieve optimal balance, 10% of the wine matures in new François Frères barrels for added richness, while 2% is aged in a concrete egg, enhancing texture and complexity.

Scores
James Suckling: 95 points
"A generous and expressive example of Russian River chardonnay, particularly for 2023. Aromas of confit lemon, salted nuts, sea salt, lanolin and flint. The palate is mid-weighted with a textural and rounded mouthfeel, yet with underlying tension brought by a focused, linear acidity. There's a great balance of power and freshness with a sophisticated touch coming from the winemaking craft of David Ramey. Drink or hold."