This Appellation Series blend has become
something of a mainstay in our portfolio – a wonderful introductory Pinot Noir at a
very fair price. However, in 2006, we seem to have taken this wine up a step or two qualitatively.
SOLD OUT AT WINERY. MAY STILL BE AVAILABLE AT SELECT RESTAURANTS AND WINE SHOPS.
The Sonoma County Pinot Noir is a blend of five different vineyards scattered from the far
western edge of the Russian River Valley to Sonoma Mountain. Specifically, the wine is a
blend of 33% Sapphire Hill Pinot Noir, 25% Van der Kamp, 23% Lewis, 13% Amber
Ridge, and 6% Keefer Ranch fruit. This also makes the wine a blend of multiple Pinot
Noir clones – including 115, 667, 777, 828, Martini, and a rather old but unidentified clone
of Pinot Noir grown up at the Van der Kamp site. Given this diversity of material and location
we should be able to make a wine that is at least somewhat entertaining. In 2006,
we went beyond entertainment and produced a wine that is both complex and satisfying.
At this point in time only a few folks have tasted the final blend but here is a description of
the wine by one of the lucky few who has tasted it and posted it on Robert Parker’s Wine
Bulletin board; “2006 Sonoma County - Wow, this wine is going to be a steal at $19
bucks, my clear favorite of the appellation wines. Really nice floral nose, with a classic
red-fruit flavor profile, tart red cherries, strawberries. Great balance, full and broad on the
palate, finely textured, and a pleasing medium finish. 91+ points.”
Production: 1940 cases
Release Date: August 2007
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