VINEYARD Cerise
CLONES Pommard, Marini, 115, 2A, 777, 114, 667, David Bruce
ORIENTATION North/South
TRELLISING Cane VSP
SOIL Bearwallow complex
FERMENTATION 45% wood, 40% concrete, 8% whole cluster, 7% stainless steel
OAK Barrel aged 19 months in 47% new French oak
ALCOHOL 13.4%
pH 3.80
TA 5.60 g/L
AROMA
Earthy notes complement the bright cherry and cranberry aromas, while a subtle vanilla bean highlights the elegant structure.
PALATE
Harmonious and poised, with fine tannins, powerful fruit and a captivating acidity.
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.
Facts of Note: Elevation difference caused 5 week spread in pick.
SIXTY-FIVE MILES NORTH OF OUR winery in Sebastopol, CA, is the critically-acclaimed little-known AVA of Anderson Valley. Over the past quarter-century, this region has emerged as the source for some of California’s most distinctive wines.
The Estate property, the Cerise Vineyard, is our focal point for the valley. We’ve been long-time fans of the region and are thrilled to be winegrowers here ourselves. Perched on the hills above Boonville in Mendocino County, these 26 blocks planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay cascade over elevations running from 587 to 1620 feet. The warm, sunny days and cool, foggy nights and mornings of the area coupled with unforgiving terrain result in thought-provoking wines that combine a rustic spirit with stunning energy and opulence.
