2023 Estate Sauvignon Blanc

Vineyard: The River Road Ranch vineyard is located within the Russian River Valley AVA. The soil composition is Cortina, characterized as deep, well-draining soil composed mainly of gravel/sandy loam. This fast-draining soil leads to stressed vines that focus their energy on the grapes rather than leafy growth, resulting in more intensity and concentration. Certified Sustainable in 2017 (CCSW)

 

38°29'18.9"N 122°49'00.5"W

 

Vintage: After a very wet winter, the 2023 growing season was slow to start. Spring was cool and cloudy leading to a delayed and drawn-out bloom in Russian River Valley. Once the vines had set their fruit, the rest of the season continued at a slow and steady pace. Patience was key as most vineyard blocks were three to four weeks behind their typical pick dates. The wait was well worth it as the resulting wines all showcase their natural acidity in perfect balance with fresh fruit flavors and aromas. Seasons like 2023 without large weather fluctuations lend themselves to truly elegant wines.

 

Winemaking: All of our Sauvignon Blanc grapes were harvested at night between September 28th and October 5th. Picking at night allows the juice to remain cold and helps preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grapes. The juice was clarified after being pressed and before adding yeast to help extract flavors of guava, passionfruit and grapefruit. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks where the wine remained on the lees until bottling in February of 2024.