Vineyard Charles Ranch
Clones Wente
Soil Josephine, Goldridge
Fermentation 100% barrel fermented
Oak 27% new French oak for 16 months / 3 months stainless steel
Alcohol 13.1%
pH 3.53
TA 6.6 g/L
AROMA
Precise and focused, with subtle hints of lavender, crème brûlée, lemon tart, and restrained flint.
PALATE
Electric finesse balanced by a brilliant, silky richness.
Since 1860, the Charles family and subsequent Martinelli generations have been farming property on the far Sonoma Coast. Formerly known as “Buffalo Hill,” Charles Ranch was once one of the largest sheep ranches in Sonoma County. In the early 1980s, the land was planted to 14 acres of Chardonnay on steep hillside against the Ag Commission’s wishes, and to the disbelief of many.
After seven years of working with this esteemed site, we are happy to include this vineyard designate in our Observations Series. Unfiltered to ensure each nuance of this beautifully restrained Chardonnay is intact: its electric finesse is balanced by a brilliant richness.
Fact of Note: 1st vineyard designate from Charles Ranch.
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.
