Winemaker Notes
Baker Ranch lies deeper in Anderson Valley, west of the hamlet of Philo, up above the virgin redwood groves of Hendy Woods. The vineyard sits on a mid-elevation east-facing slope on the south side of the valley, on very shallow slate-based soils of the Casabonne-Wohly complex. The soils have a high mineral content and an unusually high pH for California. The vines themselves were planted almost twenty years ago; they are rigorously farmed by the Baker family.
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.