Winemaker Notes
This is the second Relic bottling of Putnam Vineyard in Annapolis, and it just keeps getting better. 2015, with its minuscule yields and general warmth, has given us an intense, concentrated, yet supple and lively Pinot Noir. The cool climate character - exuberant, spicy, whole cluster-influenced aromatics of Asian spice, dried herbs, thimble berry, strawberry and white pepper - belie the richly full and voluminous palate. Intense flavors and excellent acidity provide a perfect balance, adding structure and focus. Sweet and supple tannins lead to a finish that lasts and lasts.
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.