VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES 115, 667, 23
ORIENTATION North/East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge fine sandy loam
FERMENTATION 20% stainless steel, 54% concrete, 23% neutral oak, 6% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 41% new French oak & 59% neutral oak for 15 months, then 100% of the blend was aged in stainless steel for 1 month
ALCOHOL 14.5%
pH 3.65
TA 5.4 g/L
AROMA
Raspberry, black cherry, cardamom spice, pomegranate juice, antique wood, lavender.
PALATE
Generous and voluminous on the palate, with a plush, rounded texture, balanced by vibrant acidity.
Light in feel yet full in presence, supported by fine, firm tannins and a luxuriously silky mouthfeel.
Perched 750 feet above the fog line on the western edge of the Russian River Valley, Bootlegger’s Hill Estate Vineyard spans 30 acres of ancient seabed soils. Once an apple orchard, this vineyard is now home to seven unique clones of Pinot Noir, each contributing to the wine’s depth and complexity.
The 2023 vintage reflects precision, patience, and an unwavering pursuit of quality. Shaped by a cool, prolonged growing season, these wines unveil layered complexity, balancing vibrant energy with refined elegance, and capturing the true essence of the Russian River Valley’s distinguished terroir. Aged for 16 months in 37% new French oak, followed by a final month in stainless steel, this Pinot Noir opens with vibrant aromas of raspberry, black cherry, pomegranate, cardamom, antique wood, and a hint of lavender.
On the palate, it’s expansive and plush, offering generous volume and a polished, rounded texture. Bright acidity lends energy and lift, while fine, firm tannins provide structure. Light in feel yet full in presence, the wine finishes with a silky, luxurious finesse.
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.
With soaring aromas and pure, exquisite flavors, these are incredible wines from a not-to-be-missed vintage.
– Julien Howsepian
