De Loach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay 2024

A Californian Chardonnay with a Burgundian touch, this is all about fresh, vibrant fruit with a light touch of oak to add a bit of depth. Pear, melon, and pineapple lead the way, with a hint of apple and spice adding further layers. About a third of the wine sees oak, bringing a smooth texture without overshadowing the bright, refreshing character. There's good weight here, but nothing over the top - just a well-judged balance of generosity and crisp acidity. Unmistakably Californian, but without any heavy-handedness , it's a refined, well-balanced take on a timeless style.

Ample but not overbearing, this Chardonnay is a perfect match for meaty fish like halibut - grilled with lemon and herbs, it brings out the wine's bright fruit and freshness. Roast chicken or pan-fried turkey escalopes work just as well.

Founded in the mid-1970s by San Francisco fireman-turned-winemaker Cecil De Loach, they established themselves in the early days of the Russian River Valley's rise as a serious spot for Californian Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Financial difficulties in the early 2000s led to Burgundy's Jean-Charles Boisset taking over, bringing a stronger focus on sustainability and organics. Now under Boisset's ownership, De Loach Vineyards reflects a combination of its Californian roots with a touch of Burgundian restraint, producing wines that are ripe and expressive yet balanced and refined.