2018 was another dry but not particularly warm winter; this changed in early February. A high-pressure system brought daytime temperatures into the 70’s, warming the soil and initiating bud break at some vineyard sites. In March, a cold front settled in and brought nighttime temperatures down to freezing, risking frost damage to the new shoot growth. These ‘false’ springs have become much more common in recent years. Summer was mild, leading to a marginally later harvest. The concentrated wines are poised and complex with depth and structure.

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.