2013 Wayfarer Pinot Noir
Paige's Ridge

Tasting Notes

A singular expression of Dijon Clone 667, the dark ruby color of our 2013 Paige’s Ridge heralds its great depth and intensity. Aromas of black currant, boysenberry and Bing cherry lead to warm notes of baking spices, brown sugar and licorice. The wine is voluptuous upon entry with mouth-coating flavors of cherry cordial, pomegranate, strawberry and vanilla cream, interwoven with notes of dark molasses, lavender oil and forest floor. Light on its feet with a lift of acidity on the back palate, this wine is beautifully balanced with a frame of polished tannins. It can be effortlessly enjoyed upon release, but will age gracefully for another 5–10 years.

Winemaking Notes

We hand-picked and hand-sorted the fruit, reserving 20% for whole-cluster fermentation. The remaining berries were then
de-stemmed and hand-sorted again before transfer to tank. Five to seven days of cold maceration preceded more than two weeks of 100% native yeast fermentation. The fruit was then gently pressed, its free-run juice transferred to 40% new French oak barrels for 15 months of aging.

Vintage Notes

The 2013 growing season was initially noted for its 40%-below-average rainfall amidst California’s escalating drought. Ultimately, the vintage will be remembered for its intense, concentrated flavors and exceptional quality across every vineyard block. Mild spring temperatures beckoned bud break as normal on March 27th for Clone 667 on the steep, east-facing slope of Block 8. While a touch of gentle spring rain accelerated canopy growth, strategic shoot positioning and leaf removal afforded ideal air circulation and sun exposure for the beautifully formed clusters. Veraison began on July 27th and we harvested on September 7th.

Blocks Map

8

Clones

Dijon 667

Critics

95 Points

Doug Wilder, Purely Domestic Wine Report, March 2015

The nose is gorgeously deep and complex showing licorice, blackberry, cherry, mint, red apple and rhubarb. The palate entry shows polished flavors of apple, cherry and spice with plenty of vitality and structure. Fall 2015 release. Drink 2017 – 2024.

93+ Points

Antonio Galloni, Vinous, January 2015

The 2013 Pinot Noir Paige's Ridge is one of the darker, richer wines in this lineup. Round and explosive, the 2013 offers gorgeous depth in its dark blue and purplish-toned fruit. Hints of lavender, menthol, cloves and licorice add further dimensions of nuance. The Paige's Ridge is fermented in a wood upright, which also adds texture. Even with all of its intensity, the 2013 appears to still have room to grow.

Wine Data

Winemaker:
Bibiana González Rave
Origin:
Wayfarer Vineyard, Fort Ross-Seaview, Sonoma Coast
Pruning:
Double Guyot
Vine Yield:
Less than 3 pounds
Harvested:
September 7, 2013
Bottled:
December 18, 2014
Release:
Spring 2016
Composition:
100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol:
14.6%
pH:
3.56
TA:
6.3 g/l
Cases Produced:
100 cases

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