2020 "Nobles Vineyard" Blanc de Noirs

About this wine

Schramsberg Vineyards is pleased to release the inaugural vintage of our Nobles Vineyard Blanc de Noirs, made primarily from Pinot Noir. The family's experience with Pinot Noir dates back to 1967, when Jack and Jamie Davies first used this elegant red varietal to make Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine. Over the 59 years following that first use, Schramsberg's winemakers have built long-lasting relationships with some of the best Pinot Noir growers in the North Coast.

Owned and managed by the Nobles family, this vineyard produces bright, complex, and richly layered Pinot Noir grapes. It is located approximately 75 miles north of San Francisco, on the north Sonoma Coast, in the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA. With the vineyards moderate daytime and nighttime temperature swings, the Pinot Noir grapes follow a steady path to optimal ripeness, full flavor, and color expression. The site is located on the eastern slopes of the second mountain ridge in from the Pacific Ocean, between 950 and 1,050 feet above sea level. Planted in 1993, on the propertys Goldridge loam soil, less than two tons per acre of vibrant, yet supple, fruit is harvested each year.

The 2020 Sonoma Coast growing season started out with a mild and dry winter, followed by a warmer than average summer. Following a cool, mild growing season, an August heat spell accelerated ripening, resulting in an early start to harvest. Crop was smaller than average but with concentrated flavors, resulting in balanced, fruitful wines..

Tasting notes

Our 2020 Nobles Vineyard Blanc de Noirs presents inviting aromas of yellow apple, pineapple, barely ripe strawberry, peach, and pear, mingled with notes of caramel and graham cracker. On the palate, candied orange peel, tangerine, and apricot provide a tart entry and bright acidity. The length is tangy, with hints of white raspberry and pomegranate. Toffee and toasted brioche round out the finish. - Winemakers Sean Thompson, Jessica Koga and Hugh Davies