Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
Long Meadow ranch organically farms 90 acres of vineyards in the heart of the Napa Valley - 74 acres of Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvingon vineyards in Rutherford, and 16 acres of mountain vineyards on the Mayacamas Estate The Mayacamas Estate vineyards are carved from a second growth forest at about 1,100 feet elevation.
On the Mayacamas Estate vineyard development in 1990 under the guiding hand of Napa Valley vineyard management legend, Laurie Wood. From 1998 to 2011, the vineyards were managed by Frank Leeds of Leeds-Pesch Organic Vineyard Consulting, a true pioneer in organic farming in the Napa Valley.
Today all the vineyards are ably managed by Tony Fernandez. All of our vineyards are farmed using organic practices certified by California Certified Organic Farmers.
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.
