The 2019 vintage will go down as a classic year in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Unsettled weather in the spring resulted in poor flowering, and lower yields in some blocks. The summer was warm, but not oppressive. The lack of extreme heat events was a welcome change. Harvest began in mid-September, finishing up in mid to late October. The wines are concentrated with a fine balance of structure and fruit intensity. Site expression seems amplified; low yields and moderate temperatures often lead to some of our most singular and terroir driven wines.

The Windy Hill Vineyard is perched atop the Fogarty Estate at nearly 2000 feet in elevation. The 2.5-acre vineyard was replanted in 2012 yet remains tightly packed and full of old California heritage selections of Pinot Noir. The vines are buffeted by wind, often blanketed in fog, and are grown in shallow soil. The challenging environment leads to wines with plenty of character. The Windy Hill wines are laced with red fruits, spice, and distinct mineral notes.