VINEYARD Keefer Ranch
CLONES 115, Calera, Pommard 4, 2A, 23, 777, 828, Pommard 5, 114, Swan
ORIENTATION EAST/WEST
TRELLISING Bi-lateral Cordon
SOIL Goldridge and Josephine Loam
HARVEST September 20 – October 7, 2013
FERMENTATION 5-ton wood tank / 8-ton open
top / 16% wood tank / 13%
concrete tank / 3 day cold soak / 9-14 day ferment
OAK 55% new French oak / aged 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.7%
pH 3.61
TA 6.0 g/L
BOTTLING DATE January 12, 2015
AROMA
Pomegranate, cranberry, lingonberry, and vanilla.
PALATE
Ripe red cherry and raspberry, medium body with bright acidity and concentrated fruit flavors. Velvet finish.
This Estate vineyard lies within Green Valley, in the southwestern corner of the Russian River Valley. Here, gently rolling hills harbor some of the coolest conditions within the appellation—fog, breezes and fresh nights help vines balance their ripening with warm afternoon sunshine. A heralded property, Keefer has been in the Kosta Browne family since 2005 and we are drawn to the terrific natural acidity and elegance we find in the grapes we farm here. Classic Goldridge soils offer Pinot Noir an ideal home.
In 2013, we were delighted to strengthen our relationship with this iconic Pinot vineyard by purchasing 20 acres. Marcy Keefer continues to be at the helm of Keefer Ranch and we are proud to continue to have her as part of our grape-growing family.
Fact of Note: Planted in 1998.
THE RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY IS hallowed ground for lovers of great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Here, the vines are submersed in clockwork fog and daytime temperature swings, which preserve the natural acidity essential to elegant, age-worthy wines. We work with a handful of the most beloved vineyards from this remarkable wine region considered by many to be the heartland of California Pinot Noir.
Within Russian River Valley, in a town tucked away from the main roads, you’ll find a community ranging from writer to artisan. The town of Graton is an area where local winemakers and growers take a respite and enjoy some of the many popular yet under-the-radar restaurants. During harvest, the little town is full of life and bustling.
