Outlier Pinot Noir 2022

Brilliant ruby red color with pleasing aromas of chaparral, cherry blossom, wild herb, rhubarb, cranberry, forest floor, mint, and truffle. An exuberant swirl of red and black fruits burst out with lushly-textured raspberry, black cherry, boysenberry, blackberry, and cara cara orange flavors that build richness toward supple, lightly dusty tannins, with uplifting acidity adding freshness. Savory iron, mocha, brown spice, and rose hip notes chime in on the resonant, saturated finish. Full of energy, this Pinot Noir is as singular and intriguing as the vineyard in which it was grown.

This delicious wine is produced from a single, organically-farmed vineyard in the upper reaches of Spring Valley, a narrow ravine just east of Clear Lake. The cool micro-climate at Long Valley Ranch allows for the slow ripening that is so critically important when it comes to producing balanced Pinot Noir. This outlying CCOF-certified vineyard is the only one for miles around. A mix of Pinot Noir vines were established in 2015, including Dijon clones 114, 115, 667, 777, and 943. Long Valley Ranch is off the beaten path but the 10 mile drive up the dirt road leading to the vineyard is worth it...and then some