Winemaker Notes
This two-acre vineyard sits at 900 to 1100 feet, facing south above the town of Boonville in the Anderson Valley. Its soils are part of the Wolfey-Bearwallow complex: roughly half the vineyard has very pale, sandy soil mixed with pink quartz, while the other half has more organic matter as well as large shale outcroppings. We continue to farm and manage the vineyard with able help from owners Dona Abbey and Dan Harris.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.