VINEYARD Bootlegger’s Hill, Russian River Valley AVA
CLONES 115, 667, 23, Pommard
ORIENTATION North/East
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Goldridge fine sandy loam
FERMENTATION 40% stainless steel, 60% concrete; 3% whole cluster.
ÉLEVAGE 31% new French oak & 69% neutral oak for 17 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for one month in stainless steel.
ALCOHOL 14.2%
pH 3.58
TA 5.6 g/L
AROMA
Blackberry pie with a hint of spice.
PALATE
Powerful and opulent, restrained and polished.
Bootlegger’s Hill sits at 750 feet on the western edge of the Russian River Valley, above the fog line that settles over the valley floor. Once an apple orchard, it was planted in 2009 on ancient seabed soil.
Fermented in stainless steel and concrete, then aged 17 months in 31% new French oak, the 2024 Bootlegger’s Hill is powerful and opulent, with notes of blackberry pie and a hint of baking spice. The palate is full and concentrated, restrained, yet enticing throughout.
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.
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With soaring aromas and pure, exquisite flavors, these are incredible wines from a not-to-be-missed vintage.
– Julien Howsepian
