Review: Ron Rubin, Russian River Valley Chardonnay

One of the things the Russian River Valley is known for is great Chardonnay. It is one of those areas where climatic conditions are optimal for growing Chardonnay grapes. Conditions like cool breezes and fog from the Pacific Ocean, significant diurnal temperature swings, lots of sunshine and sandy soil with good drainage.

Within the Russian River Valley, there’s a sub-zone called Green Valley, which is considered a particularly-good sweet spot for vineyards. This is where you’ll find Ron Rubin Winery.

There are only 2.5 acres of Chardonnay planted on the Ron Rubin estate, however the fruit for this wine is a blend of Chardonnay from the estate along with non-estate grapes sourced from other growers in the Russian River Valley.

Chardonnay is one of those wines that can be produced in a few different styles. Some Chardonnay is full-bodied, creamy and oaky, while some is leaner and more mineral. This one skews toward that full-bodied, creamy and oaky style, but it’s done elegantly to retain balance.

Peach aromas were the first thing I noticed when I took a first whiff of this wine, but those receded into the background as the wine opened up, revealing vanilla, honeysuckle, ripe pear and wet stone aromas. On the palate it delivers rich pear, apple, Korean melon and citrus flavors with a creamy mouthfeel. The acidity is sufficient. The finish is really long, with lingering melon and citrus flavors and a touch of salinity.

This is a full-bodied Chardonnay and as such would go well with hard cheeses or creamy dishes.

Wine: Ron Rubin, Russian River Valley Chardonnay
Varieties: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: 2018
Alcohol: 13.7%
Rating: 88
Average price: $20
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.