A Remarkable Vintage for Chardonnay

We’re excited to announce the successful harvest of our 2023 Chardonnay from the Richard Dinner Vineyard! On the morning of Wednesday, October 11th, under the soft light of dawn, we harvested pristine Chardonnay grapes from this iconic vineyard nestled on the slopes of Sonoma Mountain.

Our day began in the early hours, with our dedicated crew working under headlamps to carefully pick the grapes at the peak of their ripeness. The cool, crisp air and clear skies provided the perfect conditions for harvesting. We are deeply thankful to our grower partner and the hardworking team who ensured a clean and meticulous pick. The grapes were then transported to Balletto Winery, where our winemaker, Megan Baccitich, alongside Pooja and the Balletto custom crush crew, got to work to begin the transformation into what we anticipate will be an extraordinary wine.

"Chardonnay from Richard Dinner Vineyard is always special, but this year’s growing season has given us something truly exceptional," Megan shared. "The 2023 vintage provided a perfect balance of warmth and coolness, allowing the grapes to develop complex flavors and vibrant acidity. This is a vintage to remember."

The 2023 growing season was marked by its challenges and rewards. The year started with unprecedented rains across many parts of California, including the Russian River Valley. These heavy rains, followed by spring showers, delayed pruning and bud break, but also contributed to the rich soils and strong vine growth that would define the vintage. As spring turned to summer, the weather stabilized, and the vines flourished, setting the stage for a healthy crop.

Veraison, the phase when grapes change color and start to develop their sugars, began in late July and progressed steadily into August. This slow and steady ripening allowed the grapes to develop a remarkable depth of flavor, with the cool nights preserving the bright acidity that Richard Dinner Vineyard Chardonnay is known for. By the time we reached harvest, the grapes were perfectly balanced, offering a beautiful expression of Sonoma Mountain terroir.

As we walked the vineyard in the days leading up to harvest, the energy was palpable. All around us, the scent of fermenting grapes filled the air, a sure sign that harvest was in full swing. There’s something magical about this time of year—the culmination of months of hard work and the beginning of a new vintage’s journey.

We look forward to sharing more about this exceptional batch of Chardonnay as it evolves in the months to come. Stay tuned for updates on this remarkable vintage, and we can’t wait to pour a glass of 2023 Richard Dinner Vineyard Chardonnay for you in the future!