2016 Chardonnay Rued Vineyard

Since it was planted by Warren Dutton 50 years ago, the Chardonnay from this tucked-away site in the hills leading into Occidental has become celebrated for its opulent, somewhat mysterious persona. At times referred to as the Purrington Vineyard, this east-facing hillside has garnered so much acclaim for its explosive bottlings that the vines have been propagated as the Rued Clone, which now produce compelling Chardonnay up and down the California coast. We were fortunate to secure fruit from the last remaining block of the original 1969 planting at the top of the vineyard in Green Valley.

This appellation’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean places it among the coolest Chardonnay growing regions in California, an ideal location for harnessing the tension that defines all Texture wines. Unabashedly French in style, this offering is rich, plump and alluring, its lengthy finish and exotic curves artfully framed by the focused acidity that align it with the patient collector.