VINEYARD Winner’s Circle, Zio Tony Ranch, Lone Oak, Heintz, Ritchie, Keefer Ranch, Bootlegger’s Hill, El Diablo
CLONES Wente, Mt. Eden, Clone 4, 548, 95
TRELLISING VSP
FERMENTATION 83% barrel, 17% foudre, 100% whole cluster pressed
ÉLEVAGE 30% new French oak for 14 months, 4% new Austrian oak for 14 months, 20% wood cask for 9 months, prior to bottling 66% aged in stainless steel for 6 months
ALCOHOL 13.5%
pH 3.35
TA 6.3 g/L
AROMA
Expressive aromatics of fresh mango, honeyed lemon peel and toasted brioche encompass the senses.
PALATE
Stunningly balanced with a refined, smooth palate, lively acidity, and a weightless texture on the finish.
Our Appellation Series wines exemplify our commitment to exploration and passion for crafting soulful and thought-provoking wines that celebrate some of the world’s great terroirs.
The marine influence that follows the Russian River inland from the Pacific coast is a powerful attribute of this region. The fog helps keep nights cool and offers the vines a well-deserved break from daytime temperatures. The acclaimed Chardonnay vineyards we work with are located in the coolest parts of the Russian River Valley. Here, fruit can mature gracefully on the vine, which we find offers us more intensely focused flavors.
Individual pressed lots were all 100% native primary and malolactic fermentations, which adds profound dimension and breadth to the finished wine. From its rich yet lean and focused structure to the expressive aromatics of mango, toasted brioche, and fresh apple, this wine is beautifully balanced with a refined palate and weightless texture on the finish.
Fact of Note: The average brix at harvest was 22.6.
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.
