2 Clone Chardonnay (2018)

About this wine

The 2018 Two Clones Chardonnay from Iron Horse Vineyards offers a crisp and minerally profile, featuring flavors of green apple and Asian pear. This wine is produced in the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley, a region known for its cool, foggy climate that contributes to the wine's bright acidity and fresh fruit character. The 'Two Clones' name refers to the specific Chardonnay clones used in the vineyard, which are selected to enhance the wine's complexity and balance. The combination of these clones and the unique terroir results in a Chardonnay that is both elegant and expressive, showcasing the best qualities of the region.

About the grape

The 2018 Iron Horse Vineyards 2 Clone Chardonnay is crafted from two specific clones of Chardonnay grapes, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine. Chardonnay, originating from the Burgundy region of France, is renowned for its adaptability to various climates and soils, allowing it to express diverse flavors depending on its environment. In the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley, the cool, foggy climate and the well-draining Gold Ridge soil create ideal conditions for cultivating Chardonnay, enhancing its crispness and minerality. The selection of these two clones allows Iron Horse Vineyards to achieve a balanced and complex profile in this particular Chardonnay.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 2018 Iron Horse Vineyards Two Clones Chardonnay is crafted from two distinct Chardonnay clones: 58% Hyde Old Wente and 42% Rued, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine.
• 🌫️ Iron Horse Vineyards is located in the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley, known for its cool, foggy climate that enhances the crispness and acidity of their Chardonnays.
• 🌱 The winery practices 'precision viticulture,' managing each of its 39 vineyard blocks individually to optimize grape quality and expression.
• 🏛️ Iron Horse Vineyards' sparkling wines have been served at the White House for six consecutive presidential administrations, starting with Ronald Reagan's in 1985.
• 🪨 The predominant soil type in their vineyards is 'Gold Ridge,' a sandy loam that provides excellent drainage and is highly prized for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Palate profile

Producer

Iron Horse Vineyards, established in 1976 by Audrey and Barry Sterling, is a family-owned winery located in the Green Valley AVA of Sonoma County, California. The estate spans approximately 260 acres, with 160 acres under vine, exclusively planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Notably, Iron Horse sparkling wines have been served at the White House for seven consecutive presidential administrations, beginning with the historic Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings in 1985. The winery practices precision viticulture, dividing the estate into 39 individually farmed blocks to enhance wine quality.