Winemaker Notes
Saracina Vineyards is a 400-acre winery estate located in Mendocino County. The winery and vineyards are Certified California Sustainable (“CSWA”) and home to a tasting room, a 140-year-old olive grove, vegetable gardens, beehives, alpacas, and all manner of bird and wild animal life.
Saracina’s location in Hopland is close to the southern border of Mendocino County, along the head waters of the Russian River. This area is a 90-minute drive north of San Francisco, and 30 miles north of the town of Healdsburg, in northern Sonoma County.
Winemaker Alex MacGregor joined John Fetzer, the original founder of Saracina Vineyards, in 2002, and has been making Saracina’s wines ever since. As a result of Alex’s commitment to quality, strong ties to the community, and long-standing grower relationships, Saracina Vineyards has been regarded as one of the most consistent wine producers in Mendocino County. And in 2018, Marc D. Taub took on stewardship of the Saracina Estate & Vineyards, upholding the spirit of family legacy that has defined this iconic Mendocino winery since inception.
The handcrafted, limited-production Saracina Vineyards wines reflect a conscious sense of this beautiful place in Mendocino County.
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.