Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Sonoma Coast lies the Fort Ross Vineyard, a place where wild and extreme coastal conditions meet diverse terroir, creating one of the most unique properties in the world of California fine wine. Rising from 1,200 to 1,700 feet above sea level, the 32 small, mountain-vineyard blocks spanning 53 acres offer an exceptional environment for grapes to evolve beautifully to their pinnacle. The Spring Release trio embodies the very essence of Fort Ross Vineyard, serving as a testament to the beauty of our unique terroir.
The 2022 Bicentennial Pinot Noir is a sophisticated yet approachable ruby-hued wine that blends subtle raspberry aromas with alluring flavors of plum, black cherry, and Assam tea. The wine's supple tannins are beautifully balanced with a lively acidity that resolve into a well-integrated yet bright finish, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or occasion.
The wines produced from this noteworthy vintage will be regarded for their intense concentration of color and flavor, as well as an undeniable density that will continue to evolve for years to come.
The Mother of Pearl shells found on our coastline with their eye-catching lustrous mineral iridescence inspired the naming of this Chardonnay. The 2021 Mother of Pearl Chardonnay is made from specially selected heritage clones which we grow in the higher elevations of our maritime Fort Ross Vineyard. This wine expresses the subtle balance between its signature minerality and delightful flavors of lemon tart and white peach. Hints of crème brûlée and poached pear, also tease the palate, adding richness to this complex and multidimensional tasting experience. This envoy from our maritime cool climate vineyard finishes with lively, fresh acidity and minerality, suggesting a long life ahead.
This focused garnet-hued wine is a pure expression of the typicity of the pinot noir clones planted at the top elevations of the Fort Ross Vineyard. The aroma of this wine captivates with whispers of violets and rose petals. Dark plum, mulberry, pomegranate, and cherry flavors reveal themselves against a background of soft tannins that gently envelope this delightful wine. The layered fruit characteristics of this pinot noir are seamlessly integrated with the ever-present minerality and bright acidity that are the earmarks of our vineyard to provide a smooth and satisfying finish.
Showcasing an irresistible peachy-pink hue as it shimmers in the glass, the aromas of this 2023 Fort Ross Rosé of Pinot Noir reveal bright notes of citrus zest and fresh strawberry with hints of rose petals as it swirls in the glass. On the palate, this rosé delights with its mouthwatering acidity that heralds a glimpse of the flavors to come including white nectarine, and a hint of grapefruit. Added texture from six months of aging in neutral French oak barrels gives an alluring complexity to this rosé making it an absolute stunner!
The 2022 vintage marks the second release of our Fort Ross Chenin Blanc. This classic varietal thrives in a steep south facing block in the mid-elevations of our vineyard where the healthy happy vines have once again produced an exceptional wine. Delightful aromas of white peach, apple, white melon, and quince are followed by a bright acidity that adds a burst of freshness to every sip. Aging for six months in neutral French oak barrels gives added nuance and complexity to this unique Chenin Blanc with its crisp and delicate mineral finish.
