93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
92 Points - International Wine Report
Drink this beautiful wine any time over the next 7-8 years.
Winemaking
Wohler Vineyard was harvested in multiple passes as each block ripened at a different pace. The clones were vinified separately, with 667 and 828 providing richness and density as the foundation of the blend. Clone 115 provided bright fruit and elegance, with a splash of Wädenswil 2A for earthiness.
Vineyard
Wohler Vineyard in Forestville sits in the heart of the famed Russian River Valley within sight of the Russian River and the historic Wohler Bridge. The combination of cool climate and Goldridge Series soils provides perfect conditions for growing classic, ultra-premium Pinot noir. Sojourn sources fruit from four distinctive blocks within the vineyard: the 667 and 828 clones come from the highest elevation and best-draining blocks, while the 115 and Wadenswil 2A clones are planted in cooler, lower spots.
Vintage
The 2018 vintage offered moderate weather, cool evening temperatures and a long, even growing season. The weather conditions were ideal and allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly over the course of summer and early fall. This allowed the grapes to gain flavor complexities and ripe tannins, while retaining natural acidity. The vineyards offered grapes of exceptional quality and high yields alike.
Analysis
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Vineyards: Wohler Vineyard
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir (828, 667, 115, 2A)
Fermentation: Open-top fermentation, Native yeast
Aging: 50% New French Oak
pH: 3.70 TA: 6.1 g/L
Bottled unfined and unfiltered August 2019
Cases Produced: 650
Alcohol: 14.2%
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
Exceptional!
Reddish-purple in color with aromas of blackberry, plum, pomegranate, herbs de Provence, and licorice. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry, cassis, and licorice that carries through, with notes of black pepper, mocha and chocolate. Very long, spicy, with a fruit-driven finish. Great aging potential.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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