VINEYARD Amber Ridge
BLOCKS/CLONES USED IN THE BLEND
667 upper block/667 lower block: 667: 80%;
115: 20%
TOTAL TONS ACQUIRED PER VINEYARD/BLOCK
667: 5.8 tons; 115: 1.8 tons
ORIENTATION North/South
HARVEST September 4-15, 2009
FERMENTATION 1-ton bins / 5-ton wood open top tank / 5-day cold soak / 9-day ferment / 100% de-stemmed
OAK 50% new French oak / 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.7%
pH 3.63
TA 5.5 g/L
AROMA
Fresh blackberry, raspberry, green tea, vanilla bean, and lightly roasted nuts.
PALATE
An intense mouthful of rich cherry, ripe raspberry, and soothing cola. Soft tones of caramel and semi-sweet chocolate leading to a balanced, pleasing and silky finish.
Amber Ridge Vineyard in Windsor, CA is one of our northernmost vineyards. Planted in 2000 and situated in the upper Middle Reach area of the northern Russian River Valley, this site produces classic Pinot Noir, exhibiting rich texture, deep, red fruits, and baking spice. We source fruit from four distinct blocks, all of which make it into the vineyard designate bottling and each contributing complexities to the wine. The upper 667 block produces deep, dark berry aromatics, structure, and flavors with a touch of minerality. The lower 667 block contributes lush, round, dark fruits. The 115 block adds deep red fruit characteristics with a strong midpalate.
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.
