Located about two miles south-west of Sebastopol on Pleasant Hill Rd. (in an area locally known as Sebastopol Hills), the 18-acre Jenkins Ranch is situated on a north-east facing hillside. Once an apple orchard, Jenkins Ranch features Goldridge series sandy loam soils planted mostly to Dijon selection 777 with a small block of 667. These vines were planted under the guidance of renowned vineyard manager Charlie Chenoweth in 2001. Though the site features cool coastal influences, its location one series of hills back from the Petaluma Gap offers a degree of shelter and warmth for the grapes.

The weather in 2018 was spectacular, making this another exceptionally fine vintage for Sonoma County. A near record long growing season, with plenty of cool days, punctuated with sunny and warm patches allowed flavor and textures to mature fully. Crop levels were above average, with many sited producing the best crops in years. The acidity levels are higher than normal, with perfectly ripened fruit. Though the year was cool, the fruit was very clean and high quality. A vintage to remember!

This east facing site catches the first rays of the morning sun, which helps ward off the persistent cooling winds and fog from the Pacific. Jenkins Ranch is predominantly planted to Dijon Clone #777 Pinot which stays true to the appellation by showing its delicious savory/red fruit interplay. The 2018 delivers blueberry, crushed raspberry, soy and dried orange peel, along with an enigmatic hint of salty, ocean air. The tannins are densely layered, opulent and fleshy. Though exceptionally rich and full, this 2018 is tempered with enough mouthwatering acidity to keep the marvelously complex flavors cleansing and refreshing. 2018 is a scintillating version of Jenkins Ranch Pinot Noir.