Vineyard: Holder

Holder
OwnersBruce Holder, Mary Ann Wheeler
AppellationSonoma Coast
StoryA former apple orchard on a ridge looking down on the town of Occidental. Planted by Bruce Holder and Mary Ann Wheeler.
Dates Planted2000
Acres1.25
LocationA former apple orchard on top of a ridge in the "banana-belt" section of western Sonoma County, defined by warm days and cool nights.
VarietiesPinot Noir
ManagersBruce Holder, Mary Ann Wheeler

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2015 La Pitchoune Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.58, 298 cases, $48. Sourced from English Hill, Holder and Morris vineyards. Dijon clones 115, 667, 777 and “838.” Average harvest Brix 24.3º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 25% new, 25% once used, and 50% four years or older. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of purple grapes, boysenberry and underbrush lead off. Dense and bold in a fruit-driven mid weight plus style, with waves of dark red and purple fruits greeting the palate. A botanical thread plies the background. Nicely composed with balanced tannins and some finishing purpose. Score: 90. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 La Pitchoune Holder Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 48 cases, $68. Vineyard is a 1.25-acre family operated site. Dijon clones 115 and 667. Harvest Brix 24.3º and 24.6º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 25% new, 25% once used and 50% four years or older. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Brooding aromas of dark berries, grape must and nutty oak develop more appeal over time in the glass. The mid weight plus purple and black berry fruits flood the mouth with goodness. Subtle oak spice adds interest. The svelte tannins make for gracious drinking, and the bold and very long finish puts this wine in an upper category. Score: 93. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 la pitchoune Holder Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.58, 98 cases, $68. Second vintage from this family operated, 1.25-acre vineyard. Dijon 115 and 667. Harvest Brix 23.4º and 24.4º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose arrives slowly over time in the glass, opening to aromas of dark fruits, briar and earth. The mid weight plus flavors of black raspberry, cassis, blackberry and black tea are virile and alive. Very silky, polished and refined with recessed tannins and an impressive finish. This wine has the balance to age beautifully. Still impressive when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed December 3, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 La Pitchoune Holder Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc.,pH 3.63, TA 0.57, 120 cases, $68. Released November 2015. This 1.25-acre site, a neglected former apple orchard looking down on the town of Occidental, was planted in 2000 by Bruce Holder and Mary Ann Wheeler. Harvest Brix 22.7º and 24º. Dijon 115 and 667. Aged 11 months in 100% French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. An enchanting wine with soaring aromas of fresh Bing cherries, forest floor, brioche and a kiss of oak. Striking entry and mid palate presence of Bing cherry and blueberry fruits framed by refined tannins and integrated acidity. The finish is remarkably long, lasting well over 30 seconds. Score: 92. Reviewed November 5, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »