The "Limestone" Chenin: A Rare Find from California’s Moonscape
2023 Russell Joyce Chenin Blanc Rodnik Farm
Chalone is a geological anomaly. Located high in the Gabilan Mountains, this AVA is defined by its "moonscape" terrain of decomposed granite and—critically—limestone. It is the only place in California with significant deposits of the same soil that defines the great vineyards of France. While the region is famous for Chardonnay, the "insider" secret is the Chenin Blanc. The 2023 Russell Joyce Chenin comes from Rodnick Farm (formerly the Antle Vineyard), a dramatic, high-altitude site planted o…
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Certified-organic Rodnick Farm vineyard on Chalone high slopes
Barrel-fermented, bone-dry Chenin Blanc with Loire elegance
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Tasting notes
Aroma
Lifted and precise: white peach, lime-zest, pear skin and honeysuckle lead the way, followed by crushed seashell/mineral dust, white blossoms and subtle match-stick reduction giving tension and intrigue.
Palate
Medium-bodied yet lithe: vibrant citrus (lemon curd, key lime), orchard fruit (Bosc pear, quince) and a core of chalky limestone minerality. Bright acidity carries through to a long, saline-tinged finish with a hint of wild herb and brioche. Ages beautifully.
White Wine Body Profile
Light
Bold
Body Profile
Balanced
45/100 Intensity
Light
Bold
45.0/100
Feather-light
Lifted
Balanced
Structured
Powerful
Grapes
100% Chenin Blanc
ABV
13.5%
Serving
46–53°F
Window
2025–2032
In Detail
Chalone is famous for its limestone soils (the same as Burgundy). This Chenin Blanc, grown at 1,800 feet on the steep slopes of Rodnick Farm, proves that California can produce a white wine with the razor-sharp minerality of Savennières.
Chalone is a geological anomaly.
Located high in the Gabilan Mountains, this AVA is defined by its "moonscape" terrain of decomposed granite and—critically—limestone. It is the only place in California with significant deposits of the same soil that defines the great vineyards of France. While the region is famous for Chardonnay, the "insider" secret is the Chenin Blanc.
The 2023 Russell Joyce Chenin comes from Rodnick Farm (formerly the Antle Vineyard), a dramatic, high-altitude site planted on steep, south-facing cliffs. At 1,800 feet, the vines are subjected to extreme temperature swings and intense UV light, producing grapes with thick skins and incredible flavor concentration.
Russell Joyce treats this fruit with reverence, fermenting it with native yeast in neutral oak to preserve its naked, mineral character. This is not a fruity, tropical "pool pounder." It is a serious, bone-dry white wine that channels the spirit of the Loire Valley’s most intellectual appellations
