2019 Fort Ross Vineyard Pinot Noir
Appellation
Fort Ross - Seaview
Appellation
Fort Ross - Seaview
In Stock
Tasting Notes
Drenched in heavy fog from evening until late morning, then soaked in warm sunshine sitting above the fog in the afternoon, these grapes experience the coastal extremes, developing rustic tannins, abundant acidity, and the richness of a great California Pinot Noir. Aromas of fresh tree leaves and shrubs, akin to walking along the coast, wild blackberries, black tea and citrus peel. On the palate, flavors of clove, anise, toasted twig tea, black raspberry and crushed herbs sit atop an incredibly textured midpalate of chewy tannins and mouthwatering acidity. The finish is deeply penetrating and persistent.
Vineyard Notes
Fort Ross Vineyard is located on a very cool, coastal ridge ~1200-1700 feet above sea level within the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA, 80 miles northwest of San Francisco. The vineyard sits less than a mile inland from the Pacific Ocean and is recognized as one of the closest vineyards to the California coastline. The ocean fog at this elevation is less intrusive than in lower lying coastal vineyards, rolling in to cover the vines at night but then receding with the morning sunrise. The coastal tempering effect prevents extreme temperature swings; in fact, the lows rarely dip below fog temperature of ~55°F and rarely get above 85°F on hot, sunny days. With its rugged coastal terrain, marine sedimentary soils, long sunny days and gentle sea breezes, these coastal ridges have become one of the most highly regarded growing regions in all of California. Of the roughly 32 small vineyard blocks, we receive Pinot Noir from two amazing sections, including clone 777 and Calera selection.
