One of the World’s Best Cool-Climate Growing Regions
Celebrating the cool-climate character and complexity of California’s most revered winegrowing regions, our 2019 Appellation Series wines showcase what can be achieved from iconic sites in an exceptional vintage. Intricately structured with soaring flavors, this is a vintage not to miss.
A microclimate that began a mere 20 million years ago is nothing short of a miracle. Tectonic plate movements caused mountains to rise out of the ocean, break off the plate, and rotate clockwise, creating one of the most defined, transverse ranges on the Pacific Coast, and remnants of marine sediment deposited during the Miocene Epoch is the soil base. But what makes this area truly unique is the purely East/West maritime mouth that funnels cooling coastal fog and wind to the vines. Sta. Rita Hills is one of the world’s best cool-climate growing regions of Pinot Noir.
The 2019 season was windy, with heavy fog that didn’t break for roughly two weeks, which aided in optimal phenolic development of the grapes. As captivating as it is delicious, this wine has a robust and dynamic cool-factor, with intense fruit and spice notes continuing throughout the palate, building to a complex and polished finish.
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel
AGING 44% new French oak for 13 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.67
TA 5.9 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Intense aromas of cranberry, pomegranate, and Rainier cherry. Underlying notes of cinnamon, lemon-thyme, and sarsaparilla.
MOUTH Powerful, with a rush of intense fruit, balanced by the complex texture. Polished, with well-integrated oak and a focused structure.
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Neil Bernardi
VP General Manager
As the Vice President and General Manager for Kosta Browne, Canvasback and Goldeneye Neil Bernardi oversees all aspects of the wineries winemaking programs. In this pivotal position, Neil guides the winemakers for Goldeneye, Canvasback, and Kosta Browne to chart the stylistic direction for each winery, and to extract a profound sense of place from every wine. This process begins in the vineyards, where Neil collaborates with the estate vineyard team to help oversee several hundred vine acres in Sonoma County, Anderson Valley and Washington State’s Red Mountain. Neil also contributes his knowledge and experience to the efforts of the grower relations team, which guides vineyard selection and viticultural practices in numerous appellations to provide each winery its own focused winegrowing program.
Neil was born and raised in Northern California. After living briefly in Florence, Italy, he attended UC Davis to study Italian. At Davis, Neil fell in love with winemaking, and soon expanded his studies to include enology and viticulture, including three years spent in the lab of renowned sensory scientist Dr. Ann Noble. After earning his B.A. in Italian and B.S. in viticulture and enology, Neil went to New Zealand to deepen his understanding of winemaking and the affects of geography and climate on grape growing. There, he worked as part of the winemaking team for three highly regarded wineries: Saint Clair Estate, Cape Campbell Wines and Kim Crawford. In California, Neil has held positions at Quintessa and at Littorai, where he was the associate winemaker for Ted Lemon.
Since joining The Duckhorn Portfolio in 2005, Neil has held numerous key positions, including tenures as the assistant winemaker for both Goldeneye and Migration, winemaker for Migration, and as the general manager for Sonoma County winegrowing. Neil has contributed greatly to The Duckhorn Portfolio’s success, establishing Migration in the upper echelons of New World Chardonnay and Pinot Noir producers. As the architect of The Duckhorn Portfolio’s Sonoma County winegrowing program, Neil played an integral role in establishing a Sonoma County estate presence for the company, and expanded the Sonoma grower program to encompass multiple top appellations and renowned growers.
“Neil has always been an incredibly talented winemaker,” says CEO and President Alex Ryan. “He has emerged as a tireless, forward-thinking and positive force in the evolution of our company. While he respects the legacy and ideals that have guided us throughout our first four decades, he also possesses the vision necessary to help lead us in the decades to come.”
In 2018, Neil was recognized by Wine Enthusiast Magazine as one of the “trailblazers who are shaping the future of wine in America,” when he was named a “Top 40 Under 40 Tastemaker.”
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2019 Keefer Ranch Pinot Noir
A Candy Store of Clones in the Coolest Part of the Region
Planted in 1996 and featuring an array of elite clones, the dry-farmed Keefer Ranch is located in the coolest part of the Russian River Valley. Wind and fog lengthen the growing season at this site which helps to produce one of our most refined and graceful Pinot Noirs. We began working with this site in 2005 in collaboration with the legendary Marcy Keefer.
In the winery, we used an array of fermentation vessels to showcase different aspects of this remarkable vineyard. The resulting wine is expressive of Russian River Valley, with black cherry, blackberry, and fresh raspberry. Subdued elements of vanilla and black licorice waft from the glass while it’s flirtatious elegance and smooth tannins delight.
Keefer Pinot Noir is like a love song with a little Motown soul.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
Alcohol 14.1%
77% stainless steel
23% wood fermenter
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Keefer Ranch
CLONES 2A, Pommard, 115, 777, 828
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge and Josephine Loam
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 77% stainless steel, 23% wood ferment
AGING 50% new French oak for 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.76
TA 5.22 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Impressive notes of black cherry, blackberry, and sour raspberry with restrained vanilla and black licorice.
MOUTH A flirtatious elegance with a sensational palate showcasing energy, brightness, and smooth tannins.
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2019 Giusti Ranch Pinot Noir
Farmed By the Giusti Family Since the 1870s
The Giusti family has farmed this eponymous property since the 1870s and has some of the deepest roots in Russian River Valley grape growing. Located in a somewhat warmer region of the Russian River Valley and featuring ideal Goldridge soils, this historic property consistently delivers one of our most sumptuous Pinot Noirs.
Like a great Grand Cru wine, the 2019 Giusti Ranch Pinot Noir brings structure, breadth, and flavor effortlessly. Bursting with a mélange of fruit – blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, and dried cranberry captivate the palate, while enticing aromas of vanilla bean and leather excite the senses. This wine is built to last.
FERMENTATION 59% stainless steel, 41% wood ferment, 15% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 38% new French oak for 16 months, prior to bottling 62% wood cask for 5 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.56
TA 5.7 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE A brilliant mélange of fresh blackberry, raspberry, and dried cranberries. Delicate notes of vanilla bean and leather add interest.
MOUTH A dominant, enveloping palate with zealous, age-worthy structure, energetic acidity, and fresh fruit.
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2019 Mt. Carmel Pinot Noir
Superb Terroir-driven Structure
Planted in 1989, on steep and rugged land surrounding an abandoned Carmelite monastery, Mt. Carmel was one of the first vineyards planted in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation. Primarily dry-farmed, Mt. Carmel is extremely cool and windy. This, combined with exceptional Botella clay and
Diatomaceous earth soils, produces a wine that is as intricate and dynamic as it is alluring.
The 2019 growing season was exceptional for Mt. Carmel – the vineyard achieved ideal ripeness, and the year was very windy, which produced an extremely structured wine. With expressive and complex fruit, earthy aromatics, and profound bramble notes, it is positively vibrant. The harmonious palate highlights the grand energy and depth, embodying the character of Sta. Rita Hills. This wine is unapologetically delicious.
Mt. Carmel Pinot Noir is flashy, edgy, and hip. It’s like the lead singer of a great pop song.”
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel, 16% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 52% new French oak for 15 months, 8% new Austrian oak for 16 months, prior to bottling 100% in wood cask for 3 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.56
TA 5.9 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE A medley of alluring aromas from luxurious dark berries to candied strawberry and raspberry sorbet. It strikes a seamless union of lush fruit and the finest French oak.
MOUTH A buzzing texture, vibrant acidity, and soft tannins highlighting the pure balance.
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2019 Rosella’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
Rolling Vineyards Set Amongst Lemon Groves
Planted by legendary winegrower Gary Franscioni in 1996 and named after his wife, Rosella’s Vineyard features the coveted Pisoni clone and is situated in the northernmost part of the Santa Lucia Highlands and borders lemon groves above the fertile valley below. Strong wind and fog off
Monterey Bay ensure a long, temperate growing season in this region.
To accentuate this wine’s most graceful qualities, it was fermented in stainless steel and aged in a combination of new French and Austrian oak. As the wine unfurls, intricately perfumed aromatics of raspberry and orange blossom mingle with a broad and bright presence, deep structure, and well-integrated tannins, drawing the wine to a thoughtful finish. It is the most elegant and finessed of our Central Coast wines.
Rosella’s Pinot Noir has a presence like no other. It’s like a power ballad that pulls at your heartstrings from the first sip.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
Alcohol 14.1%
pH 3.65
11% new Austrian Oak
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Rosella’s Vineyard
CLONES Pisoni, 777, 828
ORIENTATION North / South
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Arroyo Seco sandy loam
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel
ÉLEVAGE 53% new French oak for 12 months, 11% new Austrian oak 12 months, prior to bottling the blend was aged for another 6 months in neutral oak cask
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.65
TA 5.6 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Intricate aromatics. Elegantly perfumed with rose petals, raspberry, and orange blossom.
MOUTH Deeply structured, with well-integrated tannins and a pop of bright fruit. Endearing and finessed with a long, vibrant finish.
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2019 El Diablo Chardonnay
Low Yields With Intense Flavor
Planted in 2008, El Diablo Vineyard has an average elevation of 500 feet. This tightly spaced vineyard encourages competition between the vines for a fixed amount of nutrients, resulting in reduced yields and exemplary quality.
Minimal cellar intervention and impressive terroir combine to create a wine that is both opulent and elegant. Crafted from the famed Montrachet and Robert Young clones, this is one of the finest Chardonnays we have ever produced, combining remarkable tension and length with an almost weightless sense of richness. In the winery, we aged 52% of the wine for 11 months in large-format foudres before transferring it to 60-gallon French oak barrels to impart a leesy richness. The result is as delicious as it is complex, with riveting layers of lychee, lemon zest, brioche, honeycomb, apple blossom, and crème brulée.
El Diablo Chardonnay is the high note of a rock song that very few lead singers can hit.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
pH 3.11
13% new Austrian oak
14 months
48% new French oak
14 months
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD El Diablo
CLONES Montrachet, Robert Young
ORIENTATION North/East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Silica Spreckles loam, Felta very gravelly loam
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 52% foudre / 48% barrel fermentation
AGING 48% new French oak for 14 months / 13% new Austrian oak for 14 months
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.11
TA 7.02 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Complex. Lychee nut, honeycomb, and crème.
MOUTH Superbly textural, with fresh lemon zest, and tension between vivacity and richness.
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2019 4-Barrel Pinot Noir
The Best Blend of Four Great Barrels
Unshackled from geographic constraints, this is a wine that comes straight from the heart of our winemaking team. 4-Barrel is a singular wine, the components of which change each year but whose promise and reason for being remain the same – a winemaker’s pledge to unearth a remarkable story from each vintage. The best blend we can craft from four special barrels with no vineyard or appellation restrictions.
Crafted using the most exceptional barrels of wine from Treehouse Vineyard, Gap’s Crown, Giusti Ranch, and newly sourced Rita’s Crown, this epic, unfiltered Pinot Noir is simply exquisite. Cherry, plum, blueberry, and basil harmoniously balance the lush yet lively texture, finishing as profound as the palate. Gorgeous silky tannins and undeniable power lay the foundation for an ever-lasting impression. A wine worth the wait.
4-Barrel is like going to a music festival with all your favorite bands. It’s got soul, funk, R&B, and jazz, all playing in perfect harmony.”
FERMENTATION 75% stainless steel, 25% wood ferment, 9% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 100% new French oak for 18 months, prior to bottling 100% stainless steel for 1 month
ALCOHOL 14.4%
pH 3.54
TA 5.64g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Insanely pure aromatics with depth and soul. Cherries, plums, blueberries, and basil illuminate the senses.
MOUTH Exquisite with lively texture and power. A profound palate that leaves a lasting impression.
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2019 Rita’s Crown Pinot Noir
Soaring Elevations and Distinctive Aromatics
We are thrilled to welcome the 2019 Rita’s Crown, Sta. Rita Hills, Pinot Noir to our hallmark Fall Offering. Planted in 2007 and observed as the highest vineyard site of the appellation, Rita’s Crown is predominantly south facing and boasts intensely high elevations and slope, allowing the vines to receive an extraordinary amount of sunshine and coastal wind. This, combined with the region’s typical diatomaceous earth, adds distinct intensity to the fruit.
Rita’s Crown is intriguing and unusually complex, featuring a dichotomy of flavor. Rich dark fruits and herbal forest floor notes combine to showcase a round and luscious palate of appealing texture. Layered, elegant, and decadent, it’s a wine with true soul.
If you have an affinity for funk music, Rita’s Crown Pinot Noir is your wine.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
pH 3.59
45% new French oak
33% new Austrian oak
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Rita’s Crown Vineyard
CLONES 828
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Sandy/clay loams and calcareous
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel, 15% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 45% new French oak for 16 months, 33% new Austrian oak for 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.59
TA 5.64 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Intriguing and unusually complex. Rich dark fruits with herbal forest floor notes.
MOUTH Round and luscious, with perfectly woven tannins and richness. Layered and decadent.
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2019 Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir
Mountain Fruit of a Singular Nature
Widely recognized as one of California’s finest vineyards, Pisoni helped make the Pinot Noirs from the Santa Lucia Highlands among the most coveted in the state. Reaching elevations of 1,300 feet and featuring granite and sandstone soils, as well as a southeastern exposure, the site always yields a dramatic wine with incredible color and concentration. The 45 planted acres here are divided into small blocks that follow the contours of the mountains. The lean, decomposed granite soils are well-drained, stressing the vines and forcing their roots deep into the earth in search of water and nutrients.
There is a vivid, lively quality to this wine as it showcases a complex arrangement of dried raspberry, strawberry, and rustic wild herbs. Strikingly powerful and with outstanding depth and structure, Pisoni’s smooth finish is balanced by the light frame.
Pisoni Pinot Noir reminds me of a contemporary country song with a vintage flair.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
Alcohol 14.1%
44% new French oak
100% stainless steel
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Pisoni Vineyard
CLONES Pisoni Clone
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Sandy loam and glacial alluvial
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel, 8% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 44% new French oak for 12 months, 80% finished in a wood cask for 3 months prior to bottling
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.66
TA 5.71 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE A complex arrangement of dried raspberry and strawberry with wild, rustic sagebrush.
MOUTH Focused in its approach, with an unfathomed structure and light frame. A beautiful age-worthy wine.
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2019 Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir
A Unique Partnership Between Two Legendary Characters
Established in 1997, Garys’ Vineyard is a partnership between the acclaimed Franscioni and Pisoni winegrowing families. Though located just a couple of miles south of Rosella’s Vineyard, Garys’ yields its own profoundly unique expression of Pinot Noir. Like the two Garys who founded it, this luxurious wine is larger than life.
Crafted from the tightly-clustered and thick-skinned Pisoni clone, it is intrinsically broad with opulence. On the palate, it delivers decadent raspberry, blackberry, baking spices and alluring dark chocolate notes, offset with light tannins —an attention-catching wine.
Garys’ Pinot Noir is like a killer rock song—it’s not afraid to break the rules and crank up the volume.”
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel
ÉLEVAGE 46% new French oak for 15 months
ALCOHOL 14.5%
pH 3.57
TA 5.45 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Indulgent aromatics of blackberry, raspberry, chocolate, with hints of vanilla and leather.
MOUTH Intrinsically broad with opulence and delicate tannins, providing a harmonious counterpoint to the bright acidity and dynamic finish.
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2019 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir
A Vineyard Made for Pinot Noir
Gap’s Crown is considered by many to be one of the best representations of what the Petaluma Gap AVA, which spans an area of more than 200,000 acres, is all about. Since we began working with this site in 2006, its meteoric rise into the pantheon of great Pinot Noir vineyards has been extraordinary.
Sweeping vineyards with dramatic elevation changes and clonal variety define this celebrated site. Each year, this wine appeals to Burgundy fanatics and California Pinot lovers alike. From its pleasing tension to its generous flavors of blueberry, baking spices and crème fraîche, this is a classic Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir with playful acidity and fresh, balanced richness.
Gap’s Crown is that feel-good classic rock song that everybody loves.”
Julien Howsepian, Winemaker
TA 5.75 g/L
pH 3.62
48% new French oak
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Gap’s Crown Vineyard
CLONES 667, Swan, 114, 115, 828
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Loam and Clay
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 87% stainless steel, 13% wood ferment, 14% whole cluster
AGING 43% new French oak for 15 months, 4% new Austrian oak for 15 months, prior to bottling 7% aged in wood cask for 12 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.62
TA 5.75 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Busting notes of blueberry, McIntosh apple, savory pie crust, and crème fraîche.
MOUTH Appealing, with a dynamic palate, balanced by texture and an enjoyable tension of acid and tannins.
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2019 Kanzler Vineyard Pinot Noir
Classic Goldridge Soils Combined with Cool Coastal Climate
Planted in 1996 and located 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Kanzler Vineyard is recognized as one of the jewels of the Sonoma Coast. Since 2002 we have been crafting a Single Vineyard Pinot from this site, and currently, the vines average more than 20 years of age which means the site is in its glorious prime.
Dynamic high tones of fresh blueberry, candied hazelnut, apple skin, and sour cherry, the 2019 Kanzler Pinot Noir showcases an impressive palate with delicate chalky tannins. Elevated aromatics entice while subtle herbal notes travel across the mouth. This iconic wine helped put KB on the map.
Kanzler Pinot Noir is a folk song that tells a great story.”
FERMENTATION 100% stainless steel, 10% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 47% new French oak for 15 months, prior to bottling 67% of the blend aged in wood cask for 4 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.68
TA 5.4 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Complex high tones of hazelnut, apple skin, sour cherry, kiwi, sage, and thyme.
MOUTH Expansive and savory, with light chalky tannins, finishing with force and elevated aromatics.
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2018 Cerise Vineyard Chardonnay
Complex and Vibrant
Over the past quarter-century, the Anderson Valley has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines, and Cerise as one of the valley’s most preeminent vineyards. Rising from 587 to 1,620 feet, its steep, unforgiving terrain results in thought-provoking wines that combines a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence. Originally planted with Pinot Noir in 1997, a selection of vines were grafted to Chardonnay in 2013. Grown on a south-west facing slope, this striking expression of Anderson Valley Chardonnay comes from the coolest section of Cerise Vineyard.
Bountiful aromas of quince, sharp lemon curd, and lime zest leap from the glass, while the palate displays a complex interaction between the acidity and textural richness. Subtle flavors of ripe peaches and lightly toasted almond linger upon the nuanced finish.
VINEYARD Cerise Vineyard
CLONES Wente
ORIENTATION North East/South West
TRELLISING Quad Cordon
SOIL Wolfey-Bearwallow
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 80% fermented and aged in a horizontal foudre for 16 months, then moved to a barrel for an additional 2 months
ÉLEVAGE 9% new French oak for 18 months
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.47
TA 6.1 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Bountiful citrus aromatics entice the senses with expressions of lime zest, fresh peach, and toasted almonds. Refined notes of lavender and sage add to the dynamic appeal.
MOUTH Ripe peaches and lightly toasted almond complement the nuanced tension of acidity and round, textural richness.
pH 3.47
80% foudre
9% new French oak
2017 Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir
Fine Grit and Rustic
Over the past quarter-century, the Anderson Valley has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines and Cerise as one of the valley’s most preeminent vineyards. Rising from 587 to 1,620 feet, its steep, unforgiving terrain results in thought-provoking wines that combine a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence. Pinot Noir blocks sit on the eastern side of the valley, facing west, 16 miles from the coast. There is not a single block on flat ground.
Carefully harvested over five weeks from vineyard blocks ranging in elevation, this is a beautifully complex and cerebral wine. There is a freshness of bright cherry and strawberry aromas, underscored by subtle notes of vanilla bean and herbes de Provence. On the palate, a sleek acidity and fine tannins add structure and tension to the enticing berry and spice flavors, drawing the wine to a polished finish.
Fact of Note: Elevation difference in the vineyards caused a 5-week spread in pick.
VINEYARD Cerise Vineyard
CLONES Pommard, Martini, 115, 2A, 777, 114, 667, David Bruce
ORIENTATION North East / South West
TRELLISING Cane VSP
SOIL Yorkville-Witherell
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 45% wood, 40% concrete, 8% whole cluster, 7% stainless steel
AGING Barrel aged 19 months in 47% new French oak
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.8
TA 5.60 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Earthy notes complement the bright cherry and cranberry aromas, while a subtle vanilla bean highlights the elegant structure.
MOUTH Harmonious and poised, with fine tannins, powerful fruit, and a captivating acidity.
7% stainless steel fermentation
47% new French oak
pH 3.8
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2017 Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir
Fine Grit and Rustic
Over the past quarter-century, the Anderson Valley has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines, and Cerise as one of the valley’s most preeminent vineyards. Rising from 587 to 1,620 feet, its steep, unforgiving terrain results in thought-provoking wines that combine a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence. Pinot Noir blocks sit on the eastern side of the valley, facing west, 16 miles from the coast. There is not a single block on flat ground.
Carefully harvested over five weeks from vineyard blocks ranging in elevation, this is a beautifully complex and cerebral wine. There is a freshness of bright cherry and strawberry aromas, underscored by subtle notes of vanilla bean and herbes de Provence. On the palate, a sleek acidity and fine tannins add structure and tension to the enticing berry and spice flavors, drawing the wine to a polished finish.
Fact of Note: Elevation difference in the vineyards caused a 5-week spread in pick.
VINEYARD Cerise Vineyard
CLONES Pommard, Martini, 115, 2A, 777, 114, 667, David Bruce
ORIENTATION North East / South West
TRELLISING Cane VSP
SOIL Yorkville-Witherell
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 45% wood, 40% concrete, 8% whole cluster, 7% stainless steel
AGING Barrel aged 19 months in 47% new French oak
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.8
TA 5.60 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Earthy notes complement the bright cherry and cranberry aromas, while a subtle vanilla bean highlights the elegant structure.
MOUTH Harmonious and poised, with fine tannins, powerful fruit, and a captivating acidity.
7% stainless steel fermentation
47% new French oak
pH 3.8
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2017 Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir
Fine Grit and Rustic
Over the past quarter-century, the Anderson Valley has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines, and Cerise as one of the valley’s most preeminent vineyards. Rising from 587 to 1,620 feet, its steep, unforgiving terrain results in thought-provoking wines that combine a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence. Pinot Noir blocks sit on the eastern side of the valley, facing west, 16 miles from the coast. There is not a single block on flat ground.
Carefully harvested over five weeks from vineyard blocks ranging in elevation, this is a beautifully complex and cerebral wine. There is a freshness of bright cherry and strawberry aromas, underscored by subtle notes of vanilla bean and herbes de Provence. On the palate, a sleek acidity and fine tannins add structure and tension to the enticing berry and spice flavors, drawing the wine to a polished finish.
Fact of Note: Elevation difference in the vineyards caused a 5-week spread in pick.
pH 3.8
7% stainless steel fermentation
40% concrete fermentation
Vineyard Details
VINEYARD Cerise Vineyard
CLONES Pommard, Martini, 115, 2A, 777, 114, 667, David Bruce
ORIENTATION North/South
TRELLISING Cane VSP
SOIL Yorkville-Witherell
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 45% wood, 40% concrete, 8% whole cluster, 7% stainless steel
AGING Barrel aged 19 months in 47% new French oak
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.80
TA 5.60 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Earthy notes complement the bright cherry and cranberry aromas, while a subtle vanilla bean highlights the elegant structure.
MOUTH Harmonious and poised, with fine tannins, powerful fruit, and a captivating acidity.
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2018 Cerise Vineyard Chardonnay
Complex and Vibrant
Over the past quarter-century, the Anderson Valley has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines, and Cerise as one of the valley’s most preeminent vineyards. Rising from 587 to 1,620 feet, its steep, unforgiving terrain results in thought-provoking wines that combines a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence. Originally planted with Pinot Noir in 1997, a selection of vines were grafted to Chardonnay in 2013. Grown on a south-west facing slope, this striking expression of Anderson Valley Chardonnay comes from the coolest section of Cerise Vineyard.
Bountiful aromas of quince, sharp lemon curd, and lime zest leap from the glass, while the palate displays a complex interaction between the acidity and textural richness. Subtle flavors of ripe peaches and lightly toasted almond linger upon the nuanced finish.
VINEYARD Cerise Vineyard
CLONES Wente
ORIENTATION North East/South West
TRELLISING Quad Cordon
SOIL Wolfey-Bearwallow
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 80% fermented and aged in a horizontal foudre for 16 months, then moved to a barrel for an additional 2 months
ÉLEVAGE 9% new French oak for 18 months
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.47
TA 6.1 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Bountiful citrus aromatics entice the senses with expressions of lime zest, fresh peach, and toasted almonds. Refined notes of lavender and sage add to the dynamic appeal.
MOUTH Ripe peaches and lightly toasted almond complement the nuanced tension of acidity and round, textural richness..
pH 3.47
80% foudre
9% new French oak
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2018 Bootlegger’s Hill Vineyard Chardonnay
An Unmatched Treasure in Russian River
Like many of California’s most celebrated vineyards in the iconic Russian River Valley, Bootlegger’s Hill was once an apple orchard. The ranch has six varieties of Pinot Noir clones and features two blocks of Chardonnay planted in the region’s hallmark sandy loam Goldridge soils, derived from an ancient seabed. The Chardonnay lies on the northern edge of the vineyard. This portion gently slopes toward a backdrop of redwoods, collecting cool air, and is the perfect location to grow this variety.
Though vines were first planted on the site in 2009, the bulk of the vineyard was planted the following year. Made exclusively from the famed Hyde clone of Chardonnay, this wine is lively and energetic with a show-stopping palate, gorgeous richness, and depth. Racy acidity complements the poise and purity of flavors, including vibrant grapefruit and lemon peel with captivating notes of minerality.
Fact of Note: Leaf plucking was done on the shaded side of the rows to allow for more sun exposure and even ripening.
FERMENTATION 100% barrel
ÉLEVAGE 45% new French oak for 17 months, prior to bottling 100% stainless steel for 4 months
ALCOHOL 13.9% pH 3.29
TA 7 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Lively aromas of grapefruit, lemon peel, and apricot leap from the glass while subtle impressions of caramel linger.
MOUTH Signature Bootlegger’s Hill acidity with extreme freshness and tenacity paired with alluring richness and depth. A show-stopping palate.
45% new French oak
pH 3.29
ABV 13.9%
2018 Bootlegger’s Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir
An Extraordinary Natural Masterpiece
Like many of California’s most celebrated vineyards located in the iconic Russian River Valley, Bootlegger’s Hill was once an apple orchard. Surrounded by redwoods and firs, the cool climate and well-drained Goldridge soils of this revered site keep crops small, adding intensity, elegance, and enticing flavors to both our Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Though the ranch features two blocks of Chardonnay, it is dominated by Pinot Noir clones planted in the region’s hallmark sandy loam Goldridge soils, derived from an ancient seabed. Bountiful options of rootstock and various pruning methods within the vineyard make for a beautifully layered and interesting wine. From its spherical structure on the palate to flavors of pristine red fruit, there is an effortless harmony to this wine. Aromas of red cherry and strawberry jam emerge from the glass with subtle notes of roses and singed crème brûlée, while understated tannins and a hint of oak lead to a remarkably long finish.
Fact of Note: Blend made up of eight different clones and blocks across the vineyard.
VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill Vineyard
CLONES Calera, Pommard, Elite, 115
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge
Technical Details
FERMENTATION 92% stainless steel, 8% concrete, 4% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 54% aged in new large French oak casks for 16 months with an additional 12% aged in new French oak barrels for 16 months, prior to bottling 100% of the blend aged in stainless steel for 4 months
ALCOHOL 14.4% pH 3.7
TA 5.56 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE An expressive wine with illuminating notes of strawberry jam, dried cherry, and singed crème brûlée. A surprising hint of dark pluots adds intrigue.
MOUTH Velvety, with a lush, medium body and impressive texture. Sleek acidity and understated tannins envelop the palate adding immense interest.
TA 5.56 g/L
92% stainless steel
8% concrete
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2018 Bootlegger’s Hill Vineyard Chardonnay
An Unmatched Treasure in Russian River
Like many of California’s most celebrated vineyards in the iconic Russian River Valley, Bootlegger’s Hill was once an apple orchard. The ranch has six varieties of Pinot Noir clones and features two blocks of Chardonnay planted in the region’s hallmark sandy loam Goldridge soils, derived from an ancient seabed. The Chardonnay lies on the northern edge of the vineyard. This portion gently slopes toward a backdrop of redwoods, collecting cool air, and is the perfect location to grow this variety.
Though vines were first planted on the site in 2009, the bulk of the vineyard was planted the following year. Made exclusively from the famed Hyde clone of Chardonnay, this wine is lively and energetic with a show-stopping palate, gorgeous richness, and depth. Racy acidity complements the poise and purity of flavors, including vibrant grapefruit and lemon peel with captivating notes of minerality.
Fact of Note: Leaf plucking was done on the shaded side of the rows to allow for more sun exposure and even ripening.
FERMENTATION 100% barrel
ÉLEVAGE 45% new French oak for 17 months, prior to bottling 100% stainless steel for 4 months
ALCOHOL 13.9% pH 3.29
TA 7 g/L
Tasting Notes
NOSE Lively aromas of grapefruit, lemon peel, and apricot leap from the glass while subtle impressions of caramel linger.
MOUTH Signature Bootlegger’s Hill acidity with extreme freshness and tenacity paired with alluring richness and depth. A show-stopping palate.
