ORIGIN: The grapes for this Pinot Noir came from a handful of top vineyards throughout the Sonoma Coast AVA, with a focus on some of the finest sub-appellations. The blend includes grapes from our Thale’s Estate Vineyard in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Other vineyards located in the Russian River Valley include River Road Ranch, and the Dutton family’s Winkler Vineyard and Crinella. We were also excited to include fruit from our new Nightwing Estate Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap AVA, along with fruit from the nearby Gap’s Crown Vineyard. To showcase the full picture of Sonoma Coast winegrowing, it also includes grapes from Walala Vineyard in the newly designated West Sonoma Coast AVA. VINEYARD NOTES: The 2021 vintage delivered a moderate and consistent growing season for most of Sonoma County, leading to a smooth, easily manageable harvest. While the continuation of drought conditions led to slightly reduced yields, the overall quality and concentration of the grapes was exceptional. Grapes for this wine were harvested by hand between September 3 and September 17, 2021. WINEMAKING NOTES: The majority of the grapes were destemmed into small-lot fermenters to capture the uniqueness of each site. About 15% of the fruit was fermented with whole clusters to add fruit aromas and rich complexity to the final wine. Following a two-week fermentation on the skins, the wine was drained and put into French oak barrels for ten months of aging. While 30% new French oak was used to accentuate the structure and color of the wine and to add mid-palate richness, we took care with the new oak and toast levels to not overwhelm the delicate aromas of this fine coastal Pinot Noir. Bottling took place on June 2, 2022. TASTING NOTES: With a deep, concentrated color and enticing aromas of cocoa, dried rose petals and perfumed oak, this wine beautifully embodies its cool-climate roots. The palate is impeccably balanced with generous plum and ripe red berry flavors, as well as hints of baking spice. The supple tannins and bright acidity make this wine a wonderfully versatile wine for pairing with array of cuisines. ABV: 14.5% AVA: Sonoma Coast, CA VARIETAL COMPOSITION: 100% Pinot Noir OAK: French oak barrels, 30% new MONTHS IN A BARREL: 10 WINEMAKER NAME: Heidi Bridenhagen