A little history. Planted in 1972, the vines are 47 years old this vintage! We’ve been purchasing Pinot Noir from Kent Ritchie since 2010. I’ve worked with the Cinder Cone block, which is comprised of Martini and Pommard clones. Right across the aisle lies another block of 9 double rows, on the south side is Swan clone, on the north side is Martini clone. We previously took both but later settled on the Martini for it’s superiority in this block. Mostly it’s been a blender for our Russian River Valley appellation wine and a major component of the ever-popular Wet Kiss Pinot Noir blend. But this particular year was different, the cellar crew and I noted that it was exceptional and had potential. It was decided that we not only vineyard designate it but also clonally designate it. When I was at Williams Selyem, the Olivet Lane was all Martini clone, one of my favorites then. Two are still in my cellar by the way. (1997 Vintage)
Now Martini clone is kind of a rare bird, not much new planting of it due to the favored Dijon clones. I find it intriguing that there are a few winemakers who also produce it as a clonal designate but not many from a historically distinguished vineyard. So here is our version.

Tasting notes:
A nice medium ruby color in the glass. Aromatics of dark berries, blackberry patch, cola, spice with black tea notes, and some earth. Close knit. While not overwhelming on the nose, in my experience, the Martini continues to open both in the perfume and the palate over time. The palate is concentrated—there’s a lot going on with berries, cherries, pomegranate, and citrus peel, like a ruby grapefruit. Fresh, vibrant, juicy, and rich. Supple, medium tannins. The finish begs for more and more. This wine is ageable for sure but drinking nicely now—definitely for savory dishes like a Filet Mignon in green peppercorn sauce. Hmm….

– Nikolai Stez, Winemaker

Harvest Date: September 11, 2019
pH 3.57
TA 6.7gr/L
Alcohol 13.6%
Unfined and Unfiltered
Bottled May 20, 2021
158 cases produced