You probably already know how much we love working with these mature vines, which lie so close to the Pacific. The spice, floral notes and freshness of the wines are always a thrill, and the 2017 is no different, but in this vintage the fruit quality is intensely deep. Aromas of Bing cherry pit, fresh raspberry, anise, 5-spice, lavender, beetroot, woodsmoke and a hint of Madagascar vanilla burst from the glass. The wine comes in at 13.9% alcohol, and the palate walks that tight rope we love so much between indulgence and restraint, with richness and acid balance, and excellent flavor intensity. The finish features Fort Ross-Seaview’s hallmark graceful tannins, allowing the flavors to really soar.
Kashaya is from a single vineyard in the northern part of the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA, northwest of Hirsch and six miles from the Pacific Ocean. Vines are planted to 115 and Old Wente clones and the wine aged 11 months in 42% new French oak. Pale to medium ruby-purple, the 2017 Pinot Noir Kashaya hits the ground running with bold, vibrant warm cranberries, kirsch and fresh raspberries scents with suggestions of forest floor, wild sage and tobacco plus a waft of rose hip tea. Medium-bodied, the palate is delicately played and refreshing with fantastic intensity and a long, perfumed finish. 359 cases produced.
Starting with the 2017 Pinot Noir Kashaya, it comes from a site northwest of Hirsch Vineyard, in the Fort Ross-Seaview region of Sonoma County. It was 75% destemmed and spent 11 months in 42% new French oak. Impressive notes of ripe strawberries, flowers, violets, and a touch of earthy underbrush give way to a medium-bodied, elegant Pinot Noir that has great tannins and terrific balance. It’s beautifully done and will evolve for at least a decade.
Powerfully structured, with concentrated dark cherry and berry flavors, backed by firm tannins and acidity. Dark chocolate notes show midpalate, leading to a finish that lingers with suave spice and minerally components. Drink now through 2025.
