93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
92 Points - International Wine Report
Drink this beautiful wine any time over the next 7-8 years.
Winemaking
Wohler Vineyard was harvested in multiple passes as each block ripened at a different pace. The clones were vinified separately, with 667 and 828 providing richness and density as the foundation of the blend. Clone 115 provided bright fruit and elegance, with a splash of Wädenswil 2A for earthiness.
Vineyard
Wohler Vineyard in Forestville sits in the heart of the famed Russian River Valley within sight of the Russian River and the historic Wohler Bridge. The combination of cool climate and Goldridge Series soils provides perfect conditions for growing classic, ultra-premium Pinot noir. Sojourn sources fruit from four distinctive blocks within the vineyard: the 667 and 828 clones come from the highest elevation and best-draining blocks, while the 115 and Wadenswil 2A clones are planted in cooler, lower spots.
Vintage
The 2018 vintage offered moderate weather, cool evening temperatures and a long, even growing season. The weather conditions were ideal and allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly over the course of summer and early fall. This allowed the grapes to gain flavor complexities and ripe tannins, while retaining natural acidity. The vineyards offered grapes of exceptional quality and high yields alike.
Analysis
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Vineyards: Wohler Vineyard
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir (828, 667, 115, 2A)
Fermentation: Open-top fermentation, Native yeast
Aging: 50% New French Oak
pH: 3.70 TA: 6.1 g/L
Bottled unfined and unfiltered August 2019
Cases Produced: 650
Alcohol: 14.2%
90 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass. The palate opens with cranberry, cherry fruit and wood spice dominate. Cherry and plum notes pump through with a medium-bodied texture. Smooth tannins and soft finish showcase its layered complexity.
92 Points
Aromas of red raspberry, jammed dark fruit, cinnamon spice and clove. Hints of sliced ripe plum, black tea and lavender oil adds to its complexity. Flavors of blueberry, elderberry, and cranberry are enhanced with oak spice and baking notes from the barrels. These flavors marry with soft tannins for a long and mouthwatering finish.
92 Points
Juicy blackberries and black cherries accented by mint and chocolate. Full-bodied, deeply colored, with a hint of white pepper, dried herbs and toasted bread. Delivers a substantial mid-palate of dark fruits, black tea, baked cherry, fruit preserves and licorice. Sophisticated and sumptuous. A great example of the varietal, brooding with depth and complexity. Notes of toast and oak, with integrated tannins and textural polish on the finish.