Thursday, November 15, 2012

The secret sauce in Rodgers Creek Vineyard


Rodgers Creek vineyard, in Sonoma CA, is well known for its ability to grow stellar Pinot Noir grapes. Yet it remains one of the most underrated and overlooked vineyards. Some of the most respected winemakers get their grapes from this lesser known vineyard, and it's one that has received praise from top wine critics.
Jon Bonne writes, "Here a perfect mix of factors seems evident. Constant wind and fog come from the east, some humidity and temperate weather from the bay (though the bay's influence is up for debate). The steep, terraced block gets ample afternoon sun with a bit of a wind break from trees above and below. It is, says winemaker David Ramey, "kind of an ideally situated site in a cool climate." (http://www.sfgate.com/food/article/California-s-best-lesser-known-v...)
Notable producers who source grapes from the Rodgers Creek vineyard include Sojourn Cellars and Garnet Vineyards. Both produce high-scoring (91-93 points) Pinots for around $30-40.
Here's what Landmark Vineyards has to say on the subject:




My two recommendations for Rodgers Creek Pinots:
  • Garnet Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir - $29 (!!) 91 Points WE. and available through Vintage Point. This is a steal for this wine, which they produced only about 400 cases of. Garnet has been making excellent Pinots for decades, and their winemaker, Alison Crowe really knows what she's doing with the variety.
  • Sojourn Cellars Rodgers Creek Pinot - $48, 92 points Pinot Report. Available at Sojourn's website
Images from Rodgers Creek:



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