Mindego Ridge Vineyard 2022
Mindego Ridge Vineyard is perched at an elevation ranging from 675 to 935 feet on the south facing, shale laced slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. Surrounded by redwoods, the vineyard consists of 40 acres with 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Only 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, the grapes experience a cool mesoclimate where altitude and marine influence come together to moderate California's late season heat spikes resulting in a regally impressive Pinot Noir.
Vintage Notes
A dry winter and cool spring delayed bud break and slowed bloom and fruit development. Warmer summer weather, however, prevailed through August, followed by an unexpected heat wave of eight days in early September. Reduced yields, a result of drought conditions over the last two years, combined with warmer temperatures have produced an expressive vintage featuring ripe, concentrated flavors.
Winemaking
Predominantly Clone 114, the 2022 vintage features five different Dijon clones. After destemming and a three-day cold soak, fermentation was done in open top stainless steel tanks at a range of warm and cool temperatures. The wine was aged for 11 months in 100% French oak with 25% new barrels.
Wine Profile
Nose: Bright, pure aromas of raspberry, blueberry and cherry liqueur intermingle with notes of clove, minerals and lavender.
Palate: Medium-bodied flavors of cranberry and Rainier cherry are accented by leather, mushroom and cola with a distinct structure for aging.