Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/735024
{ SOMMjournal.com } 93 JORDAN 2014 CHARDONNAY, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($32) "We're striving for Old World–inspired Chardonnay with a California nature," explains Nick Holmes, Regional Sales Director for Alexander Valley–based Jordan Vineyard & Winery. Jordan has been producing Burgundian-style Chardonnay since 1979. The final blend begins with nearly 20 different vineyard blocks on the east side of the Russian River in Sonoma County. The exposed gravel deposits found in the soils of these top vineyards help give Jordan Chardonnay its elegance, minerality and lush, lingering finish. "I would not think of Russian River if I tasted this blind," remarked moderator Will Costello, MS, nodding to the French characteristics. The use of two Burgundy clones with tight clusters and two California clones results in a complex nature that showcases the wine's lean, lemon oil texture, crisp green fruit, melon/stone notes and its clean but full-bodied mouthfeel, with a touch of salinity on the finish. The bright acidity and balance are hallmarks of the winemaking style of Rob Davis, who has been with the winery from its inception. "We're definitely going towards a leaner style since our 2013 vintage," notes Holmes. "The lees are stirred once a month in tank and barrel, and the wine is aged five and a half months in new French oak." CALIFORNIA Nick Holmes, Regional Sales Director for Alexander Valley–based Jordan Vineyard & Winery.