Gold Medal - 2025 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Grab some before prices go back up. Enjoy now through 2032.
Winemaking
Harvested from a small block of Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley region of the Sonoma Coast. Yields are maintained at lower levels for increased quality, ranging from 3 to 5 tons/acre. A small percentage of whole cluster in fermentations with punch downs and pump overs to enhance color, character, and fine tannins. Aged in 65% new French oak for 18 months. The result is a generous mouthful of rich, complex Pinot Noir that delights the palate.
Vintage
Every vintage is certainly distinct, and 2022 was no exception. Bud break arrived early with a mostly dry spring. Warm temperate days and cool nights set the stage for ideal ripening during the growing season. In perfect condition from the spring rains and a mild summer, the vines withstood the end of summer temperatures. Harvest came in the early morning during the coolest part of the day to preserve the delicate flavors and balance. Attention to detail allowed the vines to develop to their full potential making for an exceptional vintage.
Analysis
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County (Russian River Valley)
Aging: 18 Months in 100% French Oak, 65% New
pH: 3.65 TA: 6.0 g/L
Alcohol: 14.2%
94 Points
Deep garnet-purple in color and strides confidently out of the glass with notes of crushed blueberries, ripe blackberry, and warm cassis with hints of cherry, black olive, currant and a touch of black pepper.
96 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass, with aromas of dark cherry, plum, spicy cola and black tea waft from the glass. The palate delivers all of that and then some, adding layers of fig jam, white peppercorn and baking spice. Firm juicy tannins and balanced acidity round it out.
94 Points
Deep garnet in color from the ripe 2018 vintage, with open aromas of lush fruit – plum, blackberry, and cherry, and notes of cedar, vanilla, and white pepper. Across the palate it's quite seamless and silky, rich and concentrated. The fruit flavors are bold and vibrant. Mouth-filling with smooth tannins, great texture and a long delicious finish.
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