2018 Fort Ross ‘The True Terraces’ Sonoma Coast – Barrel Auction Pinot Noir

“The True Terraces” is a pure expression of a single clone from a unique terraced block that captures the essence and character of the Calera Clone. Painstakingly carved out of the steep hillside that faces the cool Pacific, this may be one of the most extreme plantings on the Sonoma Coast. The wine for these 60 bottles was selected from their very finest “Terraces” barrels and crafted exclusively for the Sonoma County Barrel Auction.

Proprietors Linda and Lester Schwartz founded Fort Ross Vineyard in 1994 when they began preparing grassland at the top of a steep, windswept coastal ridge. This picturesque 52-acre single vineyard is a necklace of 32 small mountain blocks that range in elevation from 1200 to 1700 feet overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

This elegant single vineyard, single clone Pinot Noir is defined by black raspberry and plum underscored by rose petal, orange peel and savory spice notes. Supple yet youthful tannins give way to a velvety texture that lingers through the plush finish. This multi-dimensional, beautifully integrated, finely structured Pinot Noir invites decanting and is certain to evolve gracefully for years to come.