A row of barrels in the Relic cave.

2015 Kashaya Pinot Noir

2015 was a year to remember on the True Coast, close to the Pacific. May fog and light rain sabotaged the flowering, and the result was near-historically-low yields. This means that instead of the usual 14-17 barrels from Kashaya, we made just 7 barrels! This also resulted in a highly aromatic, densely concentrated, incredibly spirited Pinot. Aromatics of raspberry, strawberry, hibiscus, Oolong tea, clove, jasmine and pink flowers are effusive. The palate is full of finesse with a beautiful, graceful texture and fine tannins, framing deep yet directional flavors echoing the nose. The finish is elegant, as Kashaya always is, leaving plenty of room for the long flavors to linger.

  • 100% Pinot Noir
  • Dijon Clones 115 and Old Wente
  • From the West Sonoma Coast, Fort Ross-Seaview
  • 30% whole cluster fermentation
  • Native yeast fermentation
  • Historically-low yields lead to intensity and aromatics
  • 168 cases from 7 barrels

Reviews
Coming from a single vineyard in the northern part of the Fort Ross-Seaview region, the 2015 Pinot Noir Kashaya (aged 11 months in 46% new French oak) offers textbook mulberry/black raspberry fruit, lots of sappy herbs and rose garden nuances, medium-bodied richness, and a ripe, concentrated, yet balanced style on the palate.
Jeb Dunnuck
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December 2017
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93
points
Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2015 Pinot Noir Kashaya offers up lovely red cherries, vibrant cranberries and roses scents with touches of dried herbs and underbrush. Medium-bodied, elegant, edgy, fine and refreshing, it has a pleasantly chewy backbone and good length.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
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The Wine Advocate #234
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December 2017
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92
points