Linda and Lester Schwartz first planted their vineyard in the 1990’s with the goal of selecting varieties, heritage field selection, clones and rootstocks that would help capture the essence of their site. In addition to varietal typicity, they wanted their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays to reflect the soils and climate of their unique coastal mountain vineyard. This is one of the coolest climate zones of Sonoma’s coast and is closer to the coast than any other Sonoma vineyards.

In the Fort Ross Vineyard, there are more old heritage field selections than newly certified clones that might tend to overcrop and often produce larger berries with diluted flavors. The heritage field selections are Calera, Pommard, Swan and two Dijon clones. Calera provides a pure and lingering taste profile. Pommard provides elegant structure, Swan provides honeyed richness, and Dijon clones 115 and 177 add vibrant red and black fruit flavors.

Color: Deeply colored; dark ruby with red highlights
Aromatics: Incredible aromatics of dark red and black fruits; baking spices; hint of vanilla
Taste Profile: “Holy Cow Wine!” Makes you want to climb into the glass! Precise mouth feel, well structured with a very long finish.
Food Pairings: Roast Duck; Pheasant; Sirloin roast; Cheddar, Gouda or Muenster cheese

By Don Clemens