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2003 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay |
 Dutton
Ranch vineyards are at the heart of the Rutz Cellars product
line. The various Dutton Ranch Vineyards are located throughout
the Russian River Valley appellation, including several blocks
designated for the exclusive use of Rutz Cellars. This
prestigious and highly sought after vineyard designated blend
represents the best lots and barrels sourced from the Dutton
Ranch properties. The separate lots were chilled to 50°F or
below and cold settled for 24 hours before being moved to 100%
French oak barrels for fermentation. After primary fermentation
all lots went through complete malolactic fermentation. Aged on
the lees and hand stirred every 2 weeks, the wine was aged for
nine months in 55% new and 45% one-year-old French oak barrels
from such renowned coopers as Louis Latour, Francois Freres,
Sequin Moreau, and Marchive. Aging took place in the constant
humidity and temperature of the Rutz Cellars caves, which is an
integral part of our winemaking program, with the natural low
temperature and high humidity providing the optimal fermenting
and aging environment.
On the nose, bright aromas of citrus and apples. Medium body. Spicy peach and tart apple, with hints of lime. Fruit flavors in the foreground give way to spice, honey and orange peel in the middle. Good acid backbone carries this wine to a long finish. Harvest Dates - September 19-28 pH - 3.62 Alcohol - 14.6% Total Acid - .592g/100ml 680 cases produced |