Winemaker Notes
Ernest's cool-climate, maritime-influenced Pinot Noir program now encompasses 5 vineyards . This appellation blend is a captivating example of the style of Pinot Noir that can be cultivated on the far reaches of the West Sonoma Coast. Retaining natural acidity and exhibiting a restrained fruit expression, this Pinot Noir is an authentic example of what is possible in cooler climates of California. This blend is sourced and crafted 100% from Ernest's core program and does not include any purchased or bulk wine for volume.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Brilliant red cherry and raspberry aromas lead to nicely tangy cherries and cranberries on the palate, as this medium-bodied, snappy wine refreshes the mouth for the next bite. It has a cheery, bright expression that’s easy to pair with food.
The Sonoma Coast AVA is large in area but, not counting overlapping regions like Russian River Valley, only has a few thousand acres of grapevines—and it’s no wonder. Much of the region is rugged and not easily accessible. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean’s fog and cool breezes limits the varieties that can be cultivated, but it proves to be an ideal environment for high quality Pinot Noir.
Since fog is a frequent fact of life here, as are heavy marine layers that sometimes bring rain, the best vineyards are wisely planted above the fog line, on picturesque ridges that capture enough sun to provide even ripening. That, with the overnight drop in temperature that reliably preserves acidity, results in fine expressions of Pinot Noir that often receive tremendous critic and consumer praise alike, and are often in high demand.