Rayhill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
Sonoma Coast
THE VINEYARD: This 9-acre vineyard is perched atop a 500-foot mountain in the Sebastopol Hills, just outside the town of Freestone. Location and climate mean the growing season is characterized by warm days, afternoon winds, and cool nights—optimal conditions for Pinot Noir. As such, vines comprise Dijon clones 115, 667, 777 and 828 on 101-14 rootstock. The vineyard also is farmed using organic practices such as cover crops with natural amendments (in other words, no herbicides). It is owned by William and Renee Rayhill.
LABEL STORY: The Ernest in Ernest Vineyards is Ernest Gottula, Todd’s grandfather and The Grandfather. Over the years “Ernest” has come to embody all of our grandparents, as well as the passion for which they stood. We are proud to carry on their legacy.
TASTING NOTE: Dried cranberry, black peppercorn, river stones, dried herbs and shiitake mushroom aromas. Acidity is balanced and very well-integrated for such a young wine. The mouthfeel is silky and luscious; red fruits abound including Chinese plum and sour cranberry flavors that are perfectly married to the velvety tannins and pronounced earthy tones of the wine.
Aging: 30% New French Oak, 10 months
Cases Produced: 161
Alc. BY Vol: 13.0
