Region and Vineyards
The Freestone-Occidental Pinot Noir is sourced from Occidental’s estate vineyards located in the cool-climate region of Freestone, on the Sonoma Coast. These vineyards sit at an elevation of 400–800 feet, benefiting from morning fog and cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean, which create an ideal environment for Pinot Noir.
The region’s Goldridge sandy loam soils, with their excellent drainage and low fertility, encourage deep root growth, producing grapes of exceptional concentration and aromatic complexity. The cool growing season allows for a slow ripening process, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity, balanced alcohol, and fine-grained tannins.
Winemaking
This vintage was marked by exceptional growing conditions, with a cool and even season that preserved the vibrant character of the fruit. The grapes were hand-harvested at night to retain freshness and brought to the winery for meticulous sorting.
The fermentation process relied entirely on native yeasts, a hallmark of Occidental’s minimal intervention philosophy, ensuring that the true character of the fruit shines. The wine underwent gentle punchdowns during fermentation to extract color and tannins while preserving the delicate aromatics. It was aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, with a modest proportion of new oak, emphasizing the wine’s purity and balance.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Medium ruby with a bright, translucent core.
- Aroma: Intense and vibrant notes of red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, with hints of rose petal, spice, and a touch of forest floor.
- Palate: Silky and fresh, with flavors of ripe red fruits layered with savory undertones and a subtle minerality. The fine-grained tannins and racy acidity provide structure and elegance, leading to a long, complex finish.
Did You Know?
Steve Kistler, the founder of Occidental, is a legendary figure in California winemaking, known for his pioneering work with Pinot Noir. His dedication to small-lot, site-specific winemaking has elevated Occidental as a benchmark producer on the Sonoma Coast.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Duck Breast with Cherry Reduction: Enhances the wine’s red fruit profile and savory elements.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Complements the earthy and mineral tones.
- Seared Salmon with Herb Butter: Matches the wine’s freshness and texture.
- Soft, Creamy Brie Cheese: Balances the acidity and enhances the silky texture.
