Reviews & Ratings

2011 La Rochelle Chardonnay "Dutton Ranch Morelli Lane"

Winery: La Rochelle

Vintage: 2011

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Dutton Ranch Morelli Lane"

Wine Category: Chardonnay

Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Russian River Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $65

Cases produced: 91

KWG Score: 90 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: May 28, 2014

Wine Review: This light gold colored Chardonnay opens with a fragrant apple and pear like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, slightly acidic, mouthwatering and very fruit forward. The flavor profile is a mineral infused tangerine and apple blend. I also detected a bit of butter and oak towards the finish. The finish is dry and its flavors linger for quite some time. This Chard would be nice on its own, but would also pair nicely with grilled rainbow trout. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: In the nose, this Chardonnay has a bright elegance to it that is driven by the aromas of apple, pear and subtle orange marmalade. The wine was sur lie aged for an extended period of time, and the notes of brioche and fresh bread are in great balance. In the mouth, this wine shows a wonderful tension between fruit and acidity. On entry there is a magical liveliness to this wine; its momentum through the mouth is compelling, lean but not austere. The purity of fruit, mineral-laden mid-palate, and gorgeous acid contribute to one of the finest Chardonnays we’ve yet made. The final step to integrate all this wine's potential was our choice of a year's bottle age before release.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell La Rochelle 2011 Dutton Ranch Morelli Lane Chardonnay.