2017 “The Princess” Rosé

Wine Notes

Vintage:
2017

Appellation:
Sonoma County

Vineyards:
Our “Princess” Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir from the 38 acre Bucher Ranch on Westside Road in Russian River Valley near Healdsburg. The Buchers are a 2nd generation farming fmaily and meticulously tend their vineyards of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This Pinot is from a north L Block and is Dijon Clone 777. The block is bench land, being well-drained, and combined with the cool climate aspects of Russian River Valley, produce some of the finest Pinots in California.

Vintage Notes:
After three years of drought, Mother Nature delivered us an abundance of rain in 2017, well above average. Spring weather was also kind, giving us a “normal” flowering and berry set. Summer heat was present but gentle, resulting in slow, even ripening of the fruit. Harvest was slightly early, a continuing effect of climate change.

Fermentation & Aging:
The grapes were harvested on August 23rd at 21.2° Brix and 6.3 g/L total acid, with 3.65 pH. After crushing, the juice was left in contact with the skins for 48 hours, then drawn off, the saigneé process. Yeast was added and the fermentation was two weeks at 60°F in a stainless steel tanks to retain fruit and freshness. The wine was then left in contact with its lees in barrel for a creamy texture. After racking and finishing, the wine was bottled on February 8, 2018.