Winemaker Notes
Building on their successes as a vineyard management company, the winery was their first step into crafting wines made solely from their estate vineyards. Since opening in 2006, they have continued to expand our state-of-the-art winery to keep up with the demand for LangeTwins wines as well as private labels and custom winemaking services. Although we have the latest winemaking technology at their fingertips, LangeTwins never loses sight of the fact that only great wine can be made from great winegrapes.
For nearly three decades, the family has proudly practiced the art of sustainable winegrowing. Unlike other farming practices, sustainable winegrowing is all encompassing in its approach. LangeTwins is not only concerned with the health of the vineyard but its surrounding natural environment as well. It is the balance of environmental health, economic profitability and social equity. From vineyard management to marketing, they are committed to improving environmental practices. Ultimately, each element plays a vital role in the integrity and quality of LangeTwins wine.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!