Sourced from the Floodgate vineyard, located on low lying land not far from the heart of Russian River Valley, this location offers a combination of sunlight and fog that is ideal for slow ripening and preservation of the fruit’s natural acidity. The resulting grapes deliver a wonderful balance between aromatics and flavors.
Soils in this vineyard are a combination of Glen Ellen and Wilson Grove Formations. The former is composed of river gravels while the latter is mainly uplifted sea floor. Both soil types drain well and provide a wonderful growing platform. This is nearly ideal pinot noir territory, and the resulting character of the wine is evident.
The fruit was brought to the winery, where it was sorted, destemmed, and gently augured into small open-top fermenters. The fruit underwent a long, slow fermentation and when entirely dry, was transferred to a basket press for a gentle pressing. The combination of free-run juice and press wine was then transferred to French oak barrels for aging. The wine was racked only once off the gross lees before a final racking for blending and bottling.
Quintessential pinot noir flavors of dark berries, cherry and rhubarb combine on the palate with the spicy flavors of vanilla. The nose indicates that the wine will be full of fruit but the palate shows the savory elements of pinot noir. Indeed, a classic Russian River Valley pinot noir, with a silky smooth finish eminently enjoyable throughout.