VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill
CLONES 667, Pommard, Calera, Elite, 37, 23, 115, 459, 115, CC
ORIENTATION North/East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge
FERMENTATION 49% stainless steel, 18% concrete, & 10% wood, 10% whole cluster
OAK31% new French oak & 3% new Austrian oak for 16 months, 19% wood tank, 20% concrete for 10 months
ALCOHOL 13.8%
pH 5.57
TA 7.00 g/L
AROMA
Focused and profound fruit aromas of raspberry and strawberry emerge. Subtle notes of sarsaparilla and sage work in harmony.
PALATE
A pristine vintage that is plush yet firm, with great depth on the palate. Supple tannins and a hint of oak lead to a remarkably long finish.
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 seven varieties of 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 berry, there is an effortless harmony to this wine. Aromas of raspberry and strawberry emerge from the glass with subtle notes of sarsaparilla and sage, while supple tannins and a hint of oak lead to a remarkably long finish.
Fact of Note: 19% aged in wood foudre for 10 months.
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.
