2020 DuMol Chardonnay Estate Vineyard

The DuMol Estate is located in the extreme southwest of the Russian River Valley subregion in the well-known Sonoma Valley. The winery has 25 hectares in production that are cultivated according to the rules of biodynamics. The vineyards are on an eastern slope and therefore enjoy the morning sun. DuMol's vineyards are located close to the Pacific in the so-called "Cool Climate" zone. In the early morning these vineyards are covered with a thin blanket of fog and in the afternoon it becomes pleasantly warm, but a light breeze from the Pacific keeps the temperature from reaching the extreme.

DuMol Estate was created through a collaboration between Kerry Murphy and Michael Verlander. Later, the talented winemaker Andy Smith joins them. Since the beginning in 1996, DuMol has been able to produce beautiful wines, mainly from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but also Viognier, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon should not be missed. Most of the grapes come from Green Valley, an area that falls within the boundaries of Russian River Valley. In addition, the winery obtains grapes from several winegrowers on the basis of long-term contracts. These vintners grow their vines in Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast and Carneros.

After 20 successful years, a new winery of no less than 19,600 square meters is being built. This gives DuMol a capacity of 20,000 boxes, but only 15,000 are produced annually. In this way, DuMol can guarantee its quality annually. The vinification room is equipped with the most advanced technology and arranged in such a way that world-class wines can be produced here. The viticultural approach is fully adapted to each plot with its own soil type and microclimate. DuMol's goal is to produce wines that are clean, vibrant, pure and intense. The wines are not named after the plot or the region, but after the names of clients and family members.

The winery remained under the radar of the general public for a while, partly because Michael and Kerry did little to promote their wines. Their philosophy was that quality will speak for itself. That is now getting over and the winery has grown into an absolute celebrity in a short time and whose wines are now also served in the White House and at the British court.

“As a 'vineyard up' winery, we remain very close to the ingredients, close to the vineyards. Our winemaking technique is secondary to what we achieve in the field.”

-ANDY SMITHViticulturist, Winemaker & Partner