VINEYARD Giusti Ranch, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES 115, 667, 777
ORIENTATION North / South & East / West
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Josephine loam
FERMENTATION 75% concrete, 25% wood, 5% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 34% new French oak for 18 months, 11% wood cask for 18 months, 5% new Austrian oak for 18 months, prior to bottling 100% stainless steel for 1 month
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.47
TA 6.03 g/L
AROMA
Composed, with expressive aromas of dark cherry, strawberry, dried cranberry and a touch of mint.
PALATE
Precise, with a medium body and lively acidity that highlight exquisite tannins.
The Giusti family has farmed its remarkable property since the 1870s, boasting one of Russian River Valley’s longest grape-growing legacies. Situated in a slightly warmer region of the valley and blessed with ideal Josephine Loam soils, this historic estate consistently produces one of our most sumptuous wines.
Our journey to create some of the New World’s finest Pinot Noirs began in the Russian River Valley. A quarter-century later, this soaring wine from Giusti Vineyard exemplifies that initial desire. Crafted from three exceptional clones and primarily fermented in concrete and wood vessels to highlight its expressive fruit and supple texture, it was aged for 18 months in 34% new French oak.
With precision and lively acidity, this beautifully composed wine reveals notes of dark cherry, ripe strawberry, and dried cranberry, culminating in a lengthy finish with exquisite tannins.
Fact of Note: Giusti Ranch was the first harvest pick for our Single Vineyard Series.
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.
