2009 Abbey-Harris Vineyard Pinot Noir
(Boonville, Anderson Valley, Mendocino County)

This 1.5 acre vineyard sits at 900-1100 feet, facing south above the town of Boonville in the Anderson Valley. Its soils are part of the Wolfey-Bearwallow complex: roughly half the vineyard has very pale, sandy soil mixed with pink quartz, while the other half has more organic matter as well as large shale outcroppings. We continue to farm and manage the vineyard with able help from owners Dona Abbey and Dan Harris. In 2009, the vineyard yielded one ton per acre.

While the nose is initially quite shy, light aeration brings warm scents of spiced raspberry, black tea, and crushed stone. The entry is expansive and broad with flavors that both echo and amplify the nose, all kept in check by firm, chewy tannins and lively acids. The finish lasts for some time, delineated by a distinct, penetrating minerality. This wine will reward ample aging.