VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill
CLONES Hyde
ORIENTATION North / East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge
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
AROMA
Lively aromas of grapefruit, lemon peel, and apricot leap from the glass while subtle impressions of caramel linger.
PALATE
Signature Bootlegger’s Hill acidity with extreme freshness and tenacity paired with alluring richness and depth. A show-stopping palate.
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.
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.
