Along the rolling hills near the town of Annapolis in the far northwestern corner of Sonoma County lies the Sealift Vineyard, just four miles from the Pacific Ocean. This proximity to the ocean provides ample cool air and fog for a long, mild growing season. Planted at 1,200 feet above sea level on Goldridge Sandy Loam soils, Sealift is a spectacular site for dark, brooding Pinot Noirs that also show the classic orange peel undertones of Annapolis. The 2022 vintage on the Sonoma Coast was very memorable. After a relatively early bud break, we experienced mild weather through bloom and most of the summer. A lighter than average crop ensured excellent concentration in the wines, and things got very interesting in September. After a prolonged heat wave, we were moving at an incredibly fast pace to bring the fruit in. Once we were able to catch our breath a bit – it rained – because of course it would. After a lull in the pacing – and a nice chance for the rain to knock the dust off the fruit – we resumed harvest at a saner pace and the fruit was brought to the winery in excellent condition.