PL Award 1: SILVER - IWC  Country: USA  Region: California  Vintage: 2018 Category: White Wine  Colour:  White Producer: De Loach "Established in 1973 by Cecil De Loach, a firefighter from San Francisco, De Loach was purchased by Burgundian Jean-Claude Boisset in 2003. His son Jean-Charles Boisset saw the similarities of the Russian River Valley with his native Burgundy and the potential that the region held for producing fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Winemaker Brian Maloney works alongside consultant winemaker Greg La Follette (formerly at Flowers on the Sonoma coast), whose appointment marked the start of a return to De Loach's previously excellent form and emphasis on high quality, small lot winemaking. The 'Heritage Reserve' range offers superb value and quality for mid-priced Californian wines. De Loach's Russian River Valley fruit is supplemented by grapes sourced from like-minded growers in selected premium areas of California, particularly the Central Coast." Product Features:  Sustainable Winemaker: Brian Maloney Vineyards: The cool, foggy Russian River Valley climate allows for slow ripening, ideal for Chardonnay to develop full flavour maturation. The fruit was hand harvested from select sites in the heart of the valley including the Boriolo and BCD vineyards, as well as from the Norris and Wallace vineyards nestled in the Chalk Hill region. Vinification: The juice was fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks (40%) and French oak barrels (60%), of which 10% were new. The barrel fermented portion of wine was aged for nine months and achieved full malolactic conversion. These techniques contributed to an intricately layered and delicately nuanced wine. Tasting Notes: Beautiful pale straw yellow in colour, the nose of this Chardonnay immediately entices you with its rich aromas of key lime, white peach, and baked apple pie. Upon the first sip, a flinty brightness balances the creamy apple. Subtle soft oak helps carry this lovely wine with a long, lingering finish. Food Suggestion: Serve with chicken breast stuffed with dried apricots, parsley and white onion puree. Closure: Natural Cork  ABV:14.5%   Acidity [g/l]: 5.78