A Grape to Grain Guide To De Loach
De Loach is a truly iconic Californian producer with a real Burgundian influence that shows in their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, they also make other American staples.
Take a few minutes to learn about this top-tier Yank winemaker.
The History of De Loach
De Loach was initially established by Cecil De Loach, (a firefighter from San Francisco), in 1973, before being acquired by renowned Burgundian Jean-Claude Boisset in 2003. This purchase was made after Boisset’s son saw similarities in the terroir of the Russian River Valley in California and his homeland of Burgundy. Shortly after the purchase, the vineyard was converted to biodynamic farming and it is now one of California’s most recognisable brands.
The De Loach Vineyards
The vines are primarily located in the eastern portion of the esteemed Russian River Valley. This area is one of the United States' premier wine-making regions and it is also one of the coolest and foggiest portions of California. This makes it an excellent source of both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
The classic Cali fog drifts in from the north of the valley and rolls through this region. This helps to protect the grapes from much of the sun's rays and ensure that the grapes retain a good deal of acidity.
De Loach Wines
Grape to Grain is proud to stock a few different examples of De Loach wines. If you love American wine, then keep reading for some delicious tipples.
De Loach Heritage Collection Chardonnay [£26.50]
- The wine has been fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks and concrete (30%) and French oak barrels (70%), of which 10% were new. The barrel-fermented portion of wine was aged for 10 months and underwent malolactic fermentation (MLF). The oak ageing and MLF help to build in a luscious texture and creamy mouthfeel, as well as building in complexity. It is rich with well-balanced acidity on the palate. Buy Now
De Loach Heritage Collection Reserve Pinot Noir [£32]
- In-keeping with the estate’s Burgundian heritage, the Russian River Pinot Noir is vinified in open-top wood fermenters and then aged in French oak for 12 months (mostly second, third and fourth use). The wine is multi-layered with fine tannins and bright acidity. Buy Now
De Loach Heritage Collection Zinfandel [£22]
- De Loach Heritage Collection Zinfandel is a smooth and supple creation, yet it is powerful and packed full of ripe fruit flavours and sweet spices from 12 months of ageing in French oak. You'll experience intense notes of ripe blackberries, black cherry, cedar, tobacco and charred wood. Big Cali Red - what's not to like? Buy Now
Don't Miss Out!
Make sure to check out our wine tastings and monthly wine club, if you want to try great wines like the ones mentioned in this blog post. Links below:
- Manchester Wine Tastings & Events
- Sauce Subscription (Monthly Wine Club)