The 2012 Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs is a special, limited edition, vintage Blanc de Blancs. Iron Horse gives $4 a bottle to the National Geographic’s Ocean Initiative, establishing marine protected areas and supporting sustainable fishing practices around the globe.

By nose, orange zest, Tahitian lime and minerality. By palate, lime, tangerine and creamy richness on the finish.

In the spirit of supporting ocean conservancy, best food pairings focus on seafood deemed a “best choice” on the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program.

Vineyard Notes

Iron Horse is at the heart of Green Valley, 13 miles from the Pacific as the crow flies. There are approximately 160 acres in vine, planted exclusively to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir - with gentle, rolling hills, and a spectacular view from the winery clear across Sonoma County to Mount St. Helena.

The predominant soil-type is called “Goldridge”, a sandy loam that has excellent drainage and is perfectly balanced, making it the most coveted for growing Pinot Noir. We practice “precision viticulture” (aka “micro-farming”) under the guidance of leading expert, Daniel Roberts, PhD a/k/a “Dr. Dirt”.

The estate is divided into 39 blocks, farmed individually, harvested separately and then each vinified as a ‘single vineyard’. Each has been planted with site specific root-stock and clone selections. All pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and cover crop decisions are determined on a block-by-block (and sometimes even vine-by-vine) basis, considering both the vintage and the long-term needs of the land.