Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County

Appellation Profile

The Sonoma Coast, a world-renowned growing region southwest of the Russian River and just six miles from the Pacific Ocean is known worldwide for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and microclimates that contribute to slow grape maturation and optimum ripeness. Small lots of fruit were sourced from a handful of exceptional Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley vineyards exclusively for Calstar Cellars Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. The sites span the depth and width of the appellation, bringing great complexity and cellaring potential to this bottling.

Winemaker’s Notes

For many winemakers, 2017 will be remembered for the Tubbs Fire that broke out in northern Napa Valley on the evening of Sunday, October 8. The fire quickly spread west and impacted the entire North Coast growing region. Luckily for us, an incredibly hot growing season led to very early ripening and our fruit was already harvested before the fire events. A season of dichotomy, 2017 started with record-breaking precipitation and then ended with a heat wave lasting nearly 100 days! Though the vines were certainly under stress, the cooler climes and ocean influences of the Sonoma Coast led to incredible intensity and structure, even in this most unusual of vintages.

Medium ruby violet in color, the 2017 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir carries the trademark cran-raspberry and cola notes of the region. Aromas of juicy pomegranate, warm cinnamon and Morello cherry appear as the wine opens in the glass, followed by dusty, loamy mushroom and a hint of anise. On the palette, the vigor and energy from the wet spring is evident – the fruit is fresh, buoyant and focused on plum, bramble-berries, and baking spice. Lovely coating tannins and bright cranberry acidity complete the package as the finish lingers on, asking for another sip. Though drinking beautifully now on release, several years of cellaring will allow more of the forest floor and spice elements to take center stage.

Technical Data:

Production: 150 Cases
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County
100% Barrel Aged: 30% New, French and Hungarian barrels
Alcohol: 13.5%
pH: 3.75
Acidity: 6.17 g/L
Harvest Date: September 20-October 9, 2017
Release Date: September 1, 2019
Aging Potential: Five to seven years