The legacy of this family dates back to 1956 when Charles and Helen Bacigalupi purchased a 121-acre ranch in Russian River Valley. In 1964 Charles planted six acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The family’s Chardonnay grapes, which were sold to Chateau Montelena helped platform the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay to win the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting. This vineyard is still in existence today. Today, there are three generations of family members involved in the future direction of the winery. The Bacigalupi family sells their grapes to 27 wineries keeping a token amount for estate production.

This 100% Wente clone Chardonnay is a blend of three different blocks of vineyards from the Goddard and Frost Ranches in the Russian River Valley. It was fermented on indigenous yeasts in 50% new French Oak barrels. It is unfined and unfiltered.

This wine reveals a medium yellow color opening to a brioche nose. reminiscent of Grand Cru Champagne. As you enter the wine there are undertones of a warm, freshly baked apple cobbler with a layer of roasted almonds and lightly toasted oak. It continues as fleshy and elegant with a touch of honey and caramel in the background. The finish is fresh and lengthy. This Chardonnay has a WOW factor!

By Joe Dimmagio