The Vintage: Drought conditions continued across Northern California in 2009. Winter rains were light and water remained scarce throughout the growing season. For the second consecutive year, a mid-May heat wave brought some of the highest temperatures we would see all summer. The summer was relatively cool and perfect for ripening. Harvest began in mid-September and finished on October 22. This year will be remembered for two dramatic harvest weather events – a late September heat wave that risked pushing sugars too high, and the biggest October storm in over forty years. We were fortunate to have our warmest blocks harvested before the heat wave and all of our delicate varieties in before the storm. In spite of the unusual weather, it was a balanced vintage that produced outstanding wines.

Vineyard: A blend of consisting one half Dijon 777 and one half Wadensville clone from Ferrington Vineyards near Boonville in the Anderson Valley Appellation

Harvest: September 11 to 16, 2008 at an average of 24.8° Brix

Fermentation: Five to Seven Day Cold Soak at 55°F
Nine Day Uninoculated Primary Fermentation at 88-94°F
Five to Seven Day Extended Maceration

Aging: Aged fifteen months in 60 gallon French oak barrels – 56% new
Coopers include Claude Gillet, Cadus, and Francois Freres

Technical Notes: Alcohol: 14.4%, pH: 3.58, Total Acid: 5.8 g/L

Cases Crafted: Four hundred and forty cases (eighteen barrels) bottled without fining on April 5, 2011

Release Date: October 1, 2011

Winemaker’s Comments: Ferrington Vineyard’s characteristic core of intense red fruit is on clear display in the most forward of our Vineyard Designate Pinot Noirs. Aromas of Bing cherry, pomegranate, and raspberry jam fill the nose while hints of coffee, toast, and cola add depth and complexity. The broad luscious palate is carried by flavors of red currant and cherry. A balance of fine grained tannins and acid provide a coating mouth feel. —Ryan Hodgins, Winemaker

Accolades: 2009 Breggo Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard
“Fresh, vibrant and concentrated, with snappy touches of blackberry and wild berry jam. This is medium- to full-bodied, turning delicate while retaining a complex, persistent, fruity aftertaste.” – 91 points,Wine Spectator

“Vivid red. High-pitched aromas of wild strawberry and raspberry, with suave floral and spicecake nuances and a hint of anise. Sappy and expansive on the palate, offering red berry flavors and a deeper note of blackberry on the back half. Gains a spicy character with aeration and finishes with excellent clarity and cut. This wine will age well on its balance.” – 93 Points, International Wine Cellar