2018 Folie a Deux Russian River Chardonnay

The grapes for the Folie a Deux Chardonnay were selected from premier vineyards throughout the Russian River Valley where some of the most globally renowned Chardonnay is made. Cooling fog from the Pacific Ocean blankets the Russian River Valley’s vineyards, reducing temperatures by 35 to 40 degrees at night and fostering a long, even growing season. From Seductive, complex aromas of honey, green apple, tropical fruits, vanilla and baking bread introduce juicy apple, pineapple and tropical fruit flavors with light butter notes from partial malolactic fermentation and crisp balancing acidity.

Although the alcohol level is low, the flavors in this Chardonnay are representative of fully ripe, developed fruit. The Russian River Valley’s wide range of alluvial soils—composed primarily of gravel, loam and sand—provides essential water drainage while retaining sufficient moisture and nutrients to support the vines during the appellation’s long growing season. The grapes in this Chardonnay ripened slowly on the vine, developing intense varietal flavors, while retaining a bright and vibrant acidity. The fruit for this Chardonnay was selected from premier vineyards throughout the Russian River Valley. Following harvest, the grapes were fermented in French, American and Hungarian (27% new) oak barrels to maintain bright acidity, add complexity and showcase the variety’s rich fruit flavors. The wine underwent 50% malolactic fermentation and then barrel aged 90% for 7 months.