2023 CANYON RANCH "BUDBREAK" PINOT NOIR 3 CLONES - RICCI VINEYARD - CARNEROS

Vintage: 2023
Appellation: CARNEROS

Vineyard: RICCI VINEYARDS

Winemaker Comments:
The cooler climate of the Carneros District with its fog and proximity to the Bay produces superior fruit with higher acidity and better balance. This release is typical of these fine traits with crisp acids, intense red fruit notes, and well layered medium body which helps to extend the palate. The finish is soft, crisp and pleasingly clean.

Tasting Notes:
Our Single Vineyard Pinot Noir series has quickly established itself as our most popular wine offering. The 2023 vintage is our 2nd iteration of a blend of Pommard clone Pinot Noir and two signature Dijon clones, 777 and 667. Hence the name, “Three Clones”. Strong, exuberant elements of cherry and strawberry shine through on this wine and it is highlighted with a layered complexity of spice, slightly tannic aromatics, and a graceful finish. With a certain level of rounded earthiness present, this Pinot Noir is the ideal homage to Carneros and its balanced embrace of beauty and refined ruggedness.

ALC: 13.9%

Winery Price: $65

2023 Vintage Report:

The Carneros region of Sonoma Valley is renowned for producing exceptional Pinot Noir, thanks to its unique climate and terroir. Nestled between the San Francisco Bay and the Sonoma Mountains, Carneros benefits from cool maritime breezes that create a long, gentle growing season, ideal for this delicate varietal. The region's diverse soil types, ranging from clay to volcanic ash, contribute to the complexity and nuance of the wines. Grapes ripen slowly, allowing for the development of rich flavors and vibrant acidity, which are hallmarks of high-quality Pinot Noir. Winemakers in Carneros skillfully harness these natural advantages, crafting wines that are elegant and expressive, showcasing aromas of cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthiness. As a result, Carneros has earned a prestigious reputation among wine enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the finest expressions of Pinot Noir.

RICCI VINEYARD - CARNEROS - SONOMA VALLEY

2020 CANYON RANCH "BUDBREAK" PINOT NOIR MEACHAM HILL VINEYARD - PETALUMA GAP

Vintage: 2020
Appellation: PETALUMA GAP

Vineyard: KARAH Vineyard, Meacham Hill

The Petaluma Gap AVA is renowned for its exceptional quality, and unique expression terroir that defines this coastal region. The cool maritime influences contribute to the grapes' balanced acidity and vibrant flavors, resulting in wines that are both elegant and complex. The well-drained soils of the area allow for optimal ripening, promoting the development of nuanced characteristics in the wine. With a smooth texture and a lingering finish, Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir captures the essence of its landscape, making it a favorite among wine enthusiasts seeking both sophistication and approachability. Whether enjoyed young or aged, these wines promise an exquisite experience that reflects the distinctive charm of their origin.

Tasting Notes:
The 2020 Canyon Ranch Karah Vineyard Pinot Noir from the Petaluma Gap AVA is a remarkable expression of its terroir, showcasing the unique characteristics of the Meacham Hill site. This wine opens with an enticing bouquet of ripe cherries, raspberries, and subtle earthy undertones, inviting you to explore further. On the palate, it reveals a harmonious balance of bright acidity and velvety tannins, with flavors of red fruit intricately layered with hints of spice and floral notes. The wine's medium body and elegant finish leave a lasting impression, making it a versatile companion for grilled salmon or a classic boeuf bourguignon. Overall, this Pinot Noir captures the essence of its single vineyard origins, offering a refined and memorable tasting experience that reflects the dedication of the winemaking team. ALC: 13.8%

Winery Price: $60

2020 Vintage Report:

The 2020 vintage of Pinot Noir from Sonoma Valley's Petaluma Gap AVA has been characterized by its exceptional quality and distinct terroir. The growing season began with a cool spring, allowing for a slow, even ripening of the grapes. The morning fog and coastal breezes contributed to a prolonged harvest, enabling winemakers to pick at optimal ripeness. The wines produced from this vintage exhibit vibrant aromas of red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by subtle earthy undertones and hints of spice. The balanced acidity and refined tannins promise excellent aging potential, making the 2020 Pinot Noir a standout among recent vintages. Winemakers in the region have expressed enthusiasm for the depth and complexity found in these wines, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Petaluma Gap. Overall, 2020 is likely to be remembered as a remarkable year for Pinot Noir in this picturesque corner of Sonoma County.

KARAH VINEYARD MEACHAM HILL PETALUMA GAP

2022 CANYON RANCH "BUDBREAK" CHARDONNAY - NAPA VALLEY

Vintage: 2022
Appellation: Napa Valley

Winemaker Comments:
The Napa Valley has long been celebrated for its exceptional ability to produce outstanding Chardonnay. With its unique combination of terroir and climate, this region provides the perfect conditions for growing this varietal. The cool maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean, coupled with warm days and cool nights, allows the chardonnay grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors. The volcanic and well-drained soils add to the character of the wines, imparting a distinct minerality and depth. Our winemakers have mastered the art of crafting Chardonnays that balance richness and elegance, showcasing the fruit's natural acidity and vibrant flavors.

Tasting Notes:
The 2022 Napa Valley Chardonnay is a delightful wine with an elegant and refined character. Its pale golden color entices the eyes, while the aroma offers a captivating bouquet of tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, accompanied by hints of citrus and delicate floral notes. On the palate, this Chardonnay delivers a harmonious blend of flavors, including ripe peach, juicy pear, and a touch of vanilla. The wine's well-balanced acidity adds freshness and structure, while the creamy texture provides a luxurious mouthfeel. With a lingering finish, this Chardonnay showcases the excellent quality of the Napa Valley's Carneros AVA, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated and well-crafted white wine.

ALC: 13.%

Winery Price:

$50

2022 VINTAGE REPORT

Winemakers are calling the vintage “the tale of two harvests,” making it one of the more unique vintages in recent history. The white wine harvest kicked off in early August, followed quickly by red wine varieties.

With climate variability as the new normal, Napa Valley grape growers aim to be resilient and adaptable. Their preparation and experience paid off in 2022 as growers faced triple digit heat over five days in September quickly followed by rain that brought harvest to a sudden halt.

The typical gap between the white and red wine harvest was almost nonexistent, and the frenzied tempo continued until the rains provided winemakers a much-needed break. Following the rain, grapes left to hang through October enjoyed mild weather days that allowed winemakers to wait for perfect ripeness.

Winemakers describe 2022 white wines as having perfect acidity and freshness with remarkable flavors and textures, and red wines as excellent structured with deep red colors, luxurious tannins and exquisite fruit-forward aromatics. Winemakers believe the unique weather events that defined the vintage will showcase the full range of flavors that Napa Valley wines are so well known for from crisp and vibrant to dense and powerful.

NAPA VALLEY