Davis Family Vineyards 2022 Estate Pinot Noir, Soul Patch Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Soul Patch Vineyard: In 1996, Guy and Judy Davis purchased the property where Soul Patch Vineyard now thrives. Guy planted Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah, dedicating 7 acres at the top of the east-facing hillside to a mix of Pinot Noir clones: Pommard, Dijon 777, Dijon 667, and Dijon 115. This slope allows the vines to enjoy the gentle morning sun, which burns off the thick Pacific Ocean fog, while avoiding the harsh afternoon sun. This results in grapes with bright natural acidity and complex aromas and flavors. Guy and his family have farmed the vineyard since its inception, using only organic practices. This approach not only benefits the planet and consumers but also creates more layered and complex wines.

Soul Patch Vineyard featured as One of the Elite California Pinot Vineyards by PinotFile

Vinification: This Soul Patch Pinot Noir is a barrel selection of the favorite barrels each vintage. The Pinot Noir is aged in French oak for 10 months. 1/3 of the barrels are new, 1/3 are one-year-old, and 1/3 are 2-years-old. This practice ensures that the Pinot Noir benefits from the finesse and structure of barrel aging without overwhelming the varietal characteristics. The grapes ferment in open-top ferment tanks using native yeast. Gentle punch downs are done over a 3-4 week fermentation, after a 5-7 day cold soak. The Pinot is then pressed and transferred directly into barrel, using gravity flow. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally. The wine is not fined or filtered. Only a minimal sulfites are added.

Tasting Notes: This fan and critic favorite boasts layers of red and dark berries, enveloped in spice and floral nuances. The silky texture and bright acidity make it an exquisite representation of the Russian River appellation.