For over 60 years Russian River’s Bacigalupi Vineyards has been the home of some of the most highly acclaimed Chardonnay vines in Northern California consisting of old Wente clone fruit on St. George rootstock, i.e. the Chardonnay fruit that put California on the map for the variety. Nestled within Sonoma’s cool Russian River, with fog-filled mornings and cooling afternoon winds that sweep through the river valley, each helping lock acidity into the delicate fruit, while sunshine-filled days ensure optimal ripeness occurs through the summer.

Dry Creek’s Dutcher Crossing honors this beautiful fruit in their Bacigalupi Vineyard Chardonnay ($42), creating a wine with punchy freshness melding with a luscious palate. Aromas of honeysuckle and citrus blossom with creamy custard and spice open the wine, leading to flavors of golden apple and stone fruit with an earthy, mineral core with lovely texture and structure.