Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

Located in the rugged terrain of northern California, near the banks of the Upper Russian River and the foothills of the Mayacamas, Saracina Vineyards encompasses a 400-acre working ranch and California Certified Sustainable winery. Amidst breathtaking vistas and rolling hills, this biodiverse estate boasts a grove of 140-year-old olive trees, vegetable gardens, beehives, alpacas, goats, and a variety of native wildlife. Family lies at the core of the estate—a principle upheld since its establishment in 2001. Since 2018, the Taub family has proudly stewarded the land, forging an even stronger foundation for excellence through extensive soil analysis and pioneering a full organic conversion and water conservation system. With Saracina Vineyards, the Taub family is committed to bringing Mendocino to the forefront of quality winemaking, showcasing the unique terroir and dedication to sustainability that define their approach.

In the deep end of the Anderson Valley, at an elevation of 200 feet, lies Valley Foothills, situated looking down at the Navarro River on a west facing slope. The clone is Jackson, known for perfume and elegance. The 2022 growing season was marked by low precipitation with some dramatic September rains that made for an exciting end of the growing season. The harvest took place on September 22nd, 2023.

The grapes were harvested by hand and destemmed into an open top fermenter with almost 100% whole berries. Native yeast fermentation began three days later and was complete by October 2nd. The free-run juice was drained directly into second and third use Francois Fréres barrels. Native malolactic fermentation was complete by early February. The wine was racked off fine lees directly to the bottling tank and bottled in early August.

The lasting impression of this 2022 Anderson Valley Pinor Noir is one of delicacy and elegance. It has an ethereal, perfumed nose of sweet raspberry and cherry. The tannins are light on their feet, and ample acidity keeps it nervy, balanced and penetrating.