VINEYARD Gap’s Crown, Sonoma Coast AVA
CLONES 667, Swan, 114, 115, 828
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goulding-Toomes complex, Goulding cobbly clay loam
FERMENTATION 72% stainless steel, 28% oak; 8% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 46% new French oak & 54% neutral oak for 16 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for 1 month in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.7
TA 5.4 g/L
AROMA
Elegant and inviting with aromas of ripe cherry, plum, and red fruit intertwined with notes of cocoa, caramel, and a hint of wet slate.
PALATE
Beautifully balanced, revealing flavors of dark fruit, raspberry, and subtle baking spices. Smooth tannins and soft acidity create a rich yet delicate texture with an extended finish.
Gap’s Crown Vineyard is widely recognized as one of the most exceptional expressions of the Petaluma Gap AVA, the southern region of the renowned Sonoma Coast appellation. Since our partnership with this vineyard commenced in 2006, it has soared to remarkable heights, earning its esteemed status among the finest Pinot Noir vineyards.
The 2022 vintage of Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir was crafted from five carefully selected clones, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine. Fermentation was conducted in both stainless steel and wood vessels, using 8% whole clusters, then aged for 16 months in barrel, with its final month spent in stainless steel to ensure a harmonious integration of flavors.
This wine unfolds with a complex bouquet of ripe cherry, plum, and red fruits interwoven with subtle cocoa and caramel notes. Hints of wet slate, star anise, and soft florals provide a captivating complexity beautifully balanced by smooth tannins that lead to a lingering finish.
Fact of Note: The 2022 vintage was fermented in 72% stainless steel.
THE SONOMA COAST, WHICH OVERLAPS with the Russian River Valley and stretches all the way to the windswept edge of the Pacific Ocean, has emerged as a hub for cool-climate wines. The vineyards are planted using the finest modern clones and viticultural techniques and have rapidly earned the region acclaim for producing some of the world’s most extraordinary Pinot Noirs.
A deserving pitstop along the Sonoma Coast is the picturesque town of Bodega. Made famous by Hitchcock’s “The Birds,” this little town is also known for incredible food from talented chefs focused on local, seasonal brilliance.
