Our eight-acre vineyard is located on the site of the family's old prune orchard near the confluence of Dry Creek, Russian River and Mill Creek. This site is considerably cooler than the town of Healdsburg despite its short distance away. Deep yolo loam soils and southwesterly air movement from the Pacific Ocean near the mouth of the Russian River ensure gradual ripening and complex flavor development.
We have benefited from several decades of Chardonnay winegrowing in the Russian River Valley. Clone 17 (Robert Young) for structure and clone 4 which adds a touch of tropical fruit.
We take Merlot ripening right to the edge. The berries begin to dimple so the wine will have maximum concentration and flavor.
We grow three noble clones of Pinot at this time. Clone 91 (Pommard 4), clone 97 (Swan) and clone 73 (Dijon 115). Clonal variety provides complexity to the finished wine.
The birds do love our grapes as do we. For three weeks prior to harvest Mr. Flailing Man helps keep them away. It really works!
Gewurztraminer is so seductive with flavors of apricots, tropical fruit and sweet spices. We love to eat the fruit when taking grape samples. The birds love to eat it too.
Spring 2022