2021 Chardonnay, El Diablo Vineyard
In keeping with the characteristics of many concentrated vintages, the 2021 growing season was initiated under notably dry conditions. The brief rainy season of 2020/2021 led to an overall modest crop for Ram’s Gate. However, true to its resilient nature, the El Diablo vineyard yielded just over 2.5 tons per acre, resulting in a stunning showcase of a Russian River Chardonnay.
The magic of this vineyard lies in the juxtaposition between its geographic location and the resulting wine style. Despite Eastside Road being a warmer segment of the Russian River Valley, the El Diablo Chardonnay elegantly embraces a cooler terroir, delivering notes of stone fruits, white flowers, and captivating minerality.
Fueled by one of the highest percentages of Montrachet in the final blend (78%), the 2021 vintage stands out for its dynamic nose featuring orange blossom, nutmeg, and spiced pear. Texturally, the wine is voluptuously round and creamy—a hallmark of this vineyard—while simultaneously maintaining precision and length. Although still youthful, this Chardonnay promises to unfold further depth and character over the next five years.
