Senses Chardonnay 2019, El Diablo Vineyard, Russian River Valley, California

Planted in 2008 by vineyard manager Ulises Valdez, El Diablo vineyard sits on a ridge above Eastside Road in Russian River Valley. Early in their relationship, he told the Senses Wines team that “when you work hard, the fruit always tastes better.” That holds very true for El Diablo. Chardonnay (Old Wente Selection) planted in 2008. Gravelly and sandy loam with tight clay subsoil. As with their other Chardonnay, it was barrel fermented and spent 14 months in 25%-40% new French oak. Beautiful buttered orchard fruits, honeysuckle, green almond, pear, and crushed stone notes are just some of the nuances here, and this complex, full-bodied Chardonnay has nicely integrated acidity, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, flawless balance, and a great finish.