VINEYARD Winners Circle, Laguna Valdez, Klopp Laguna, Zio Tony, Jenkins, Silver Eagle, Pratt Sexton, Moonshine, Bootlegger’s Hill, Giusti, Treehouse, Keefer Ranch
FERMENTATION 72% Stainless steel open tops, 7% wood open tops, 2% concrete open tops, 4% whole cluster
OAK 31% new French oak for 15 months, 5% concrete for 5 months
ALCOHOL 14.2%
pH 3.6
TA 5.75 g/L
AROMA
Raspberry bramble, black cherry and a touch of vanilla.
PALATE
Round, spherical entry, balanced with inspiring texture.
With idyllic weather from start to finish, 2018 was one of the finest growing seasons of the past decade. Each wine within the Appellation Series embodies the unique qualities we cherish from the regions we work with.
There are many differences between vineyards in this small appellation, but the majority of them do share a common influence – the cooling effect that follows the Russian River inland from the Pacific coast. The resulting fog helps keep nights cool and offers vines a respite from daytime temperatures. In turn, these diurnal temperature swings slow down ripening and promote more evolved flavors in our grapes.
Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to work with many great vineyards that span a diverse and varied view into a region that many would call the heartland of California Pinot Noir. Our goal is to create a wine that showcases the essence of this magical appellation. This year, it was the latest harvest in the last five years. But, no matter the vintage, there is often a recognizably full mouthfeel and texture to the wines from the area – a common thread to the components of this blend. The round, spherical entry showcases the bramble and black cherry notes of this wine. A totally complete Pinot Noir.
Fact of Note: Minimal irrigation due to ample rain.
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.
