Winemaker's Notes
This vineyard is set on the northwest-facing slope of a hill in the heart of the Green Valley AVA. At about 10 Acres, planted about a quarter century ago, there are 10 blocks of different clones on two different rootstocks that were selected to match the soil conditions. The block I have settled into is planted to Riparia gloire, an unusual rootstock for the area (but employed in other countries with great success) which is a wonderful match for this small patch of soil. With the small amount of firsthand experience growers had in our area with these rootstocks at the time, I think Pamela and Glen Gunsalus made excellent choices. Since our first vintage from this site in 2006, this is typically the first or second site we harvest in any given vintage.
Tasting Day 1: Pretty, floral notes of peony and jasmine, with mild rose hips and beet showing up on the palate as well. Nice acidity driven structure with good presence and a very clean and lively long graceful finish. Day 2: Welcome savory nuances arrive along with fresh leather, more red beets and an even longer finish echoing the previous day’s expression.
In 20 years’ experience with this site, this is truly my favorite vintage yet as a young wine. Really has filled into its structure and has an amazing array of facets. Could it be the time that these vines have been in the ground, putting them into equilibrium with their environment?
