VINEYARD Gap’s Crown, Sonoma Coast AVA
CLONES Swan, 667, 114, 115, 828
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goulding-Toomes Complex and Goulding cobbly clay loam
FERMENTATION 38% concrete, 62% oak; 3% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 46% new French oak for 16 months, then 100% of the blend was aged
for 1 month in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 14.3%
pH 3.68
TA 5.26 g/L
AROMA
Enticing on the nose with potpourri, black cherries, toast, cocoa, clay pot, and bacon.
PALATE
An elegant and sleek textured wine. Glides effortlessly with refreshing acidity and flavors of wet rock, blackberry crumble and savory finish.
Gap’s Crown Vineyard is regarded as one of the exceptional expressions of the Petaluma Gap AVA, a jewel of the renowned Sonoma Coast appellation. Since 2006, our partnership with this vineyard has soared to remarkable heights, earning its esteemed status among the finest Pinot Noir vineyards.
The 2023 vintage of Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir was crafted from five carefully selected clones including the prized Swan clone. Fermentation in concrete and wood barrels and then aged for 16 months in barrel, with its final month spent in stainless steel to ensure a harmonious integration of flavors.
These enticing aromas captivate the senses, a mix of potpourri, black cherries, cocoa, dried river bed, and a hint of bacon. On the palate, it reveals an elegant, sleek texture that glides effortlessly, balanced by refreshing acidity. Flavors of wet stones and rich blackberry crumble emerge, leading to a savory finish that lingers, adding depth and complexity to the experience.
THE SONOMA COAST, WHICH OVERLAPS with the Russian River Valley and stretches all the way to the windswept edge of the Pacific Ocean, has emerged as a hub for cool-climate wines. The vineyards are planted using the finest modern clones and viticultural techniques and have rapidly earned the region acclaim for producing some of the world’s most extraordinary Pinot Noirs.
A deserving pitstop along the Sonoma Coast is the picturesque town of Bodega. Made famous by Hitchcock’s “The Birds,” this little town is also known for incredible food from talented chefs focused on local, seasonal brilliance.
With soaring aromas and pure, exquisite flavors, these are incredible wines from a not-to-be-missed vintage.
– Julien Howsepian
