2013 Reuling Vineyard Chardonnay

Reuling Vineyard is just outside Forestville, in the Sonoma Coast AVA. It was founded in 1998 when Jackie and Tim Reuling purchased the 16-acre property that would become their home and their vineyard. Midwesterners by birth, the couple developed a love for wine, food and sustainable agriculture though many visits to France. In 2000 they planted vineyards and began a program of small scale farming that included livestock, vegetable gardens and fruit orchards. Reuling is devoted to producing small-batch Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well very small amounts of Rosé. The winemaker is Matt Taylor, who previously worked at Araujo.

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.