VINEYARD Keefer Ranch, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES 2A, 115, 777, 828, Pommard
ORIENTATION East / West
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge sandy loam
FERMENTATION 53% stainless steel, 28% concrete, 19% wood
ÉLEVAGE 46% new French oak for 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.57
TA 5.9 g/L
AROMA
Vivacious aromas of strawberry, rhubarb, and citrus zest, with restrained black licorice.
PALATE
Delicately smooth tannins and a velvety texture harmonize with vibrant red fruit flavors, culminating in a memorable finish.
Nestled in the coolest part of the Russian River Valley, Keefer Ranch vineyard is a testament to refinement and grace. Planted in 1996 with elite clones, this remarkable site benefits from the region’s gentle winds and enveloping fog, resulting in an extended growing season that yields exceptional Pinot Noir. Since our collaboration with legendary Marcy Keefer began in 2005, we have been captivated by the site’s unique character.
At the winery, an array of fermentation vessels were carefully selected to showcase the finesse of Keefer Ranch. This meticulous approach allows for elegant extraction, adding breadth to the final blend. The nose reveals vivid aromatics of strawberry, rhubarb, and citrus zest intertwined with a restrained touch of black licorice. As the wine unfolds, remarkably soft tannins and an all-encompassing texture linger on the finish.
Fact of Note: The longest on-skin contact of all the Single Vineyard wines.
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.
