Winemaker Notes
2015 was a challenging year to be a grapevine. It was the fifth year of drought in a row, and many vines were showing the stress of such a long time with less than normal water. The crop was quite small too, especially on the Sonoma Coast but to a lesser extent in Carneros as well. While some feel that the 2015 Pinot Noirs are almost too concentrated to be balanced, at The Shop, I would say that flavor was concentrated but extract was not. The Shop in 2015 is prettier and fruitier, and perhaps more forward, than the 2014 was at the same age. Possibly slightly less tannic. Time will tell how it might age, but it certainly tastes good now!
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.