2023 Ron Rubin - Chardonnay Russian River

Ron Rubin has spent his career in the beverage industry, working in wholesale and distribution and brand development since the early 1970s. In 2011 he purchased a Green Valley property in the Russian River Valley, fulfilling a longtime ambition to run his own vineyard and winery. His approach centers on producing well made, good value Sonoma County wines meant for everyday enjoyment, a philosophy that carries through the winery's Chardonnay program.

This Chardonnay is sourced from vineyards across the Russian River Valley, an appellation shaped by cooling fog that rolls in from the Pacific most mornings. That marine influence creates wide swings between daytime and nighttime temperatures, allowing the grapes to hang longer and develop more complex flavor. The 2023 growing season ran cooler and wetter than usual, pushing harvest later and giving the fruit extra time to ripen slowly on the vine. The grapes were hand-picked and whole-cluster pressed, then fermented in a mix of French and American oak, with a portion of new barrels and partial malolactic fermentation adding richness.

The wine opens with soft aromas of apple and dried pineapple, layered with hay, toasted almond, and warm oak spice. On the palate, creamy butterscotch and toasted nut flavors round out into a hint of apple blossom on the finish. Its balance of fruit and richness makes it a natural match for hard cheeses or chicken and mushrooms in a creamy butter sauce.