Surrounded by natural forests along the Sonoma Coast, 1000 feet above sea level, and 4 miles from the ocean, we were fortunate to source this vineyard which had not been sold to another producer to date. Imbedded in fine Goldridge Loam soils on a steep east facing slope, the water drains freely contributing to vigor control and crop size reduction: a critical element to producing subtle but complex Pinot noir. The confluence of high elevation and frequent shrouding in cool fog (yes more frequently than “cool” regions further inland) keep temperatures from reaching extremes and therefore produce an environment for consistent and even ripening. This moderation is harvest approaches; with Pinot noir’s thin skins the propensity for dehydration rises closer to harvest as water import to the grape diminishes and temperatures remain warm across the state. However on the coast, higher humidity and cooler days allow the grapes plenty of time to develop intricate flavor profiles without reducing their acidity too quickly.

Our love of Pinot noir begins with spice-laden Burgundies delivered on palates of tension and finesse. However we also revel in the lush berry flavor of California Pinot noir so we set out to utilize our cool coastal fruit in a manner where raspberry and cherry notes are complemented with spicy elements. To accomplish this harvest timing was chosen that preserves freshness and provides pure fruit character (not too late, not too early!). As with nearly all our fermentations, incorporating 50% of the stems adds spices to the flavor profile and to the structure. Of course this wine was made with grapes and love, no commercial yeast and aged for 18 months in only a bit of new oak (25%) to add hints of sweetness to the pleasure. Named for Joe Donelan’s two sons, The Two Brothers is our first offering of the most ethereal variety on the planet.

From first laying our eyes on the vineyard, to tasting the fermentations, to watching this wine age, our excitement for this Pinot noir has only grown. Pure red raspberry licorice pours through a fog of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla and just a touch of cedar. The aromatics dance and change with time. While aromatically not fully knit together at the moment the mouth feel is wonderfully focused and fresh providing a tense wire to hang all the flavors and nuances. With time as the wine adds weight and flesh we expect it to gain in what is already a beautiful and lengthy finish. It’s hard to credibly tell you to age the wine when I’ve already enjoyed a quarter of my allocation (whoops!), but believe us your pleasure will surely increase as the aromatics integrate and develop with more time (2-3 years near term, 8-12 long term). All that is to say this is no obvious, monster Pinot noir. It is what we set out to make: a subtle, intricate, and lovely wine designed for your gladness.

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