Introduction:
The 2021 Ramey “Woolsey Road Vineyard” Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley is a refined and expressive single-vineyard wine that exemplifies the intersection of California richness and Burgundian restraint. Crafted by David Ramey, one of California’s most respected winemakers, this Chardonnay showcases depth, structure, and vibrancy, making it a standout in his cellar and the region.

Terrior:
The Woolsey Road Vineyard, owned by the Martinelli family, lies in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Planted to Old Wente Chardonnay clones on Huichica clay-loam soils, this site benefits from coastal fog and cool nights that preserve acidity and enhance aromatic lift. The vineyard’s design, developed in collaboration with Ramey, emphasizes vine density and balance, resulting in consistently high-quality fruit with layered complexity.

Appearance:
Pale straw-gold in colour with a hint of green at the rim, the wine has excellent clarity and a luminous sheen. Its legs are well-formed, indicating moderate alcohol and richness.

Nose:
The nose is detailed and elegant, offering aromas of Meyer lemon, golden apple, and white nectarine, intertwined with jasmine, hazelnut, flint, and subtle toast. With air, additional notes of almond cream, chamomile, and sea breeze minerality unfold, reflecting both varietal purity and élevage.

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a silky, mouth-coating texture supported by vibrant acidity. Flavours of orchard fruit, lemon curd, and poached pear dominate, followed by layers of toasted brioche, crushed rock, and delicate oak spice. The wine is impeccably balanced, with freshness driving the fruit and a refined, integrated oak presence enhancing the overall mouthfeel.

Finish:
The finish is long, clean, and mineral, echoing lemon zest, saline, and subtle herbal tones. It fades gradually with a chalky texture and lasting freshness, inviting another sip while promising graceful evolution in the bottle.

Overall Impression:
The 2021 Woolsey Road Vineyard Chardonnay is a masterclass in site-driven winemaking—at once generous and restrained, textured and bright. It is a wine for collectors and enthusiasts alike, capable of impressing on release and evolving beautifully over the next decade.

Recommended Food Pairings:
Meat Dish: Roasted chicken with lemon-thyme jus or seared halibut in brown butter sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Cauliflower gratin with Gruyère and breadcrumbs or truffle risotto with shaved Parmesan.
Cheese / Charcuterie Pairing: Aged Comté, mild Gruyère, or Brillat-Savarin, paired with Marcona almonds and thinly sliced speck.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.0%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture; Old Wente clone; hand-harvested; vineyard planted to Ramey’s specifications
Producer Name: Ramey Wine Cellars
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: California – Russian River Valley
Grape Varietals: Chardonnay (100%)
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: White, Medium to Full-bodied, Barrel-aged
Winemaking Techniques: Whole-cluster pressed; native yeast fermentation; full malolactic conversion; aged 20 months in French oak (20% new); bottled without filtration
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Standard wine bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork