VOLUME 12, ISSUE 34
December 30, 2022
ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE:
A Commonplace Bucket of Pinot Noir: Quotes, Ephemera, and Thoughts The Prince Retires (this time for good)

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Vineyard: Sangiacomo Roberts Road

OwnerSangiacomo Family Vineyards
AppellationSonoma Coast
Story14 different clone and rootstock combinations.
Dates PlantedFirst plantings date to 1998.
LocationWestern slopes of Sonoma Mountain bordered by Copeland Creek. Across the street from Gap's Crown Vineyard.
SoilsAlluvial clay, rocky.
VarietiesChardonnay, Pinot Noir
Clones115
ManagersSangiacomo Family Vineyards

Articles mentioning wines produced from this vineyard

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2017 Sonoma-Loeb Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $36. Grapes sourced from Sangiacomo, Calesa and Dutton Ranch vineyards. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Slightly confected aromas of dark cherry, baking spice, waffle cone, warm almonds and vanilla. Noticeable oak embellishment in this full-bodied style with giving flavors of black cherry fruit framed with notes of dark chocolate and vanilla. Expansive in the mouth, with a generous black cherry infused finish that also displays a slight bit of alcoholic warmth. Score: 89. Reviewed June 19, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Blagden Sangiacomo-Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., $Pre-release. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of dark red and black fruits with an appealing freshness. Mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, exotic spices, and a dusting of toasty oak presented in a wholesome and coordinated fashion. Nuances of loam and floral perfume add interest. Beautifully balanced, with integrated tannins, and a long finish replete with black cherry goodness. Score: 93. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Sojourn Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.62, 800 cases, $38. Old Went clone from Sangiacomo Vella and Green Acres ranches, clone 95 from Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard, Old Wente clone from Durell Vineyard, and clone 95 from Gap’s Crown Vineyard. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented, native yeast, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 10 months on lees with regular stirring during the first three months of fermentation and aging in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Heady aromas of fresh-cut apple, pear, nectarine and citrus blossom. Offers both richness and eloquence, featuring flavors of lemon, pineapple, honey and crème brûlée. Slightly creamy, with integrated acidity and some finishing length. Score: 91. Reviewed January 6, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Eric Kent Sascha Maria Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.63, 247 cases, $52. Art by Valerie Savarie. This bottling is named after Kent’s daughter and is sourced from Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard (95%) and Grand Vent Vineyard (5%). Primary clones are 777 and Swan with a small amount of Pommard and 667. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Rapturous nose offering scents of black cherry, black raspberry and exotic spices. Vivid, fresh purple and black fruit flavors filled out with a compliment of oak. The burliest and fruitiest wine of the three tasted here, but not jammy. Excellent harmony with pleasing length on the finish. Score: 93. Reviewed December 11, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Sangiacomo Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.61, 215 cases, $60. Released May 2018. 40% Roberts Road, 40% Fedrick, and 20% Amaral vineyards. Clones 115, 667, 777 and Swan selection. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak with hand punch downs. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of boysenberry, spice, floral cologne and toasty oak. Soft and smooth in the mouth, with an intense mid palate presence of purple and black berry fruits. A hint of oak-driven spice and toast ply the background. The well-integrated tannins and juicy acidity compliment the wine. Score: 90. Reviewed July 21, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Roadhouse Winery Green Label Sangiacomo Roberts Road Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.73% alc., pH 3.90, TA 0.67, 400 cases, $69. Pommard, Swan and 777 clones. Harvest Brix 24.8º. 100% de-stemmed, 5- day cold soak, BGY, Merit and Assmenhausen primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 20% new and 60% a blend of 1 and 2-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Very shy nose without discernible fruit character. Mid weight flavors of blackest cherry, blueberry and blackberry framed by modest tannins. The wine finishes with a sweet and sour. Score: 87. Reviewed June 9, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.54, TA 0.59, 64 cases, $70. Released May 2018. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, hand punch downs, aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 33% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry reduction and toasty oak lead off. Discreetly concentrated in a mid weight style, featuring flavors of purple berry, blackberry, pomegranate and spice flavors. Very suave on the palate with cashmere tannins and some finishing purpose. There is some alcohol warmth on the finish. A bit of oak characters persist even when tasted the follow day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed July 21, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Sangiacomo Vi Maria Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.57, 81 cases, $80. Release September 2018. 50% Amaral, 25% Roberts Road and 25% Fedrick vineyards. Clones 667, 777, Pommard and Swan selection. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, daily punch downs by hand, aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Invigorating aromas of black cherry, cardamom spice, fertile earth and a hint of toast and graham are revealed slowly in the glass. Rather bold in a mid weight plus style, but stealthy, with an abundance of boysenberry, blackberry and black grape flavors. There is a bit of umami in this wine. Sleek tannins lead to a satiny texture and the oak blends seamlessly over time in the glass. More enchanting when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed July 21, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 La Follette Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 340 cases, $42. This vineyard is located at the base of the eastern foothills of the Sonoma Coast AVA, directly adjacent to Gap’s Crown Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. Dijon 777 and Swan clones. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 38% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcome aromas of black cherry, cardamom spice, vanilla, herbs and fertile earth. Impressive attack, length and finish in a silky, refined, mid weight style that is beautifully balanced. Flavors of purple berries and plum linger on the quenching finish. Score: 92. Reviewed December 3, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Sojourn Sangiacomo Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.70, 348 cases, $45. Release spring 2017. The wine is a combination of clone 95 from Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard and Old Wente clone from Sangiacomo Vella Ranch and Green Acres. Whole cluster pressed, fermented slowly in French oak barrels using native yeast, lees stirring the first three months, and aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. Malolactic fermentation allowed to progress as far as it desired. Bottled unfined. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. This wine is styled in a more vibrant, bright style. Aromas of lemon and grapefruit lead to a crisp and clean palate that is citrus driven. Vivid flavors, with oak playing a minor role, and finishing on a spirited note with a juicy, cleansing attitude. Score: 92. Reviewed December 13, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Blagden Sangiacomo - Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.77, TA 0.50, 125 cases, $48. Release March 2019. Clones 115, Swan and 777. 100% de-stemmed, native fermentation in open-top fermenters after a 5-day cold soak, inoculated for malolactic fermentation, and aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of crushed dark red and black berries along with a bit of toasty oak soar from the glass. Mid weight plus in style with plenty of black fruit stuffing. The wine carries the weight of fruit and alcohol well. Plush and polished on the palate, with noticeable length to the finish. Score: 92. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Sean Minor Sangiacomo-Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.54, $48.99. Vinted and bottled by Sean Minor, Sonoma, CA. This vineyard, planted in 1999, is located at the base of Sonoma Mountain at the far northern edge of the Petaluma Gap. A blend of Dijon 777 and Pommard clones. 100% de-stemmed, natural yeast fermentation in open-top fermenters, daily punch downs. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Mellow aromas of black cherry pie and biscuit. A sophisticated wine that attracts by its polished and balanced demeanor. Extroverted flavors of black cherry and blackberry are framed by modest tannins and complimentary oak. The pedigree of the fruit shines through. Score: 92. Reviewed September 24, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Eric Kent Sascha Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.63, 218 cases, $52. Released spring 2017. Artist Valerie Savarie. 56% Roberts Road, 22% Grand Vent and 22% Stiling vineyards. 50% Swan, 28% 777, 15% Pommard, 4.5% 113 and 2.5% 667. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 62% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. A toned and trim wine with both weight and weightlessness. Aromas and flavors of dark cherry and blackberry are accented with nutty oak. Noticeably juicy, with a gentle grip of tannins and a finish that is joyously long. This wine is a wine of immense charm and poise. Score: 95. Reviewed September 24, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Sojourn Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.60, 1,020 cases, $59. Release spring 2017. This vineyard is located on Roberts Road at the western base of Sonoma Mountain. The base of this wine is clone 115 with small portions of 777 and Swan clones added in for complexity. Extremely low yields. 100% de-stemmed, open-top fermentation with native yeast, and aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Persistent aromas of black cherry, spice, purple grapes and oak shavings lead to a mid weight treasure of purple berry and black cherry goodness that has impressive depth of flavor and a remarkably plush and luxurious mouthfeel. Not a powerhouse like the Gap’s Crown, but nimble and texturally mesmerizing. Needs a little time to fully integrate the oak. Even better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 94. Reviewed December 13, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Ram’s Gate Roberts Road Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.40, TA 0.58, 178 cases, $72. Located in the Petaluma Gap AVA, this vineyard dates to 1999 and is farmed by the Sangiacomo family. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Seductive aromas of cherry, strawberry and warm spices are engaging. The flavors echo the aromas in a mid weighted wine with impressive length in the mouth, leaving behind a long, juicy, cherry-fueled finish. The mouth feel is soft and relaxing. The load of fruit sap is kept in check by adroit acidity so that the wine is balletic and fresh in character. Score: 93. Reviewed March 17, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Helen Grace Wines Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $N/A. Produced at The Wine Foundry in Napa. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Coy aromas of darker berries and an aura of oak lead to a middleweight wine blessed with vibrant flavors of fresh black cherries and black raspberries. Very suave on the palate, with immersed tannins and some finishing power. Still very solid the following day when tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with ebullient fruit aromas and flavors and a seductively smooth mouthfeel. Score: 92. Reviewed April 2, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Eric Kent Small Town Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

12.9% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.62, 150 cases, $50. Released spring 2016. Sourced from four vineyards all owned by the Cleary family (60% Michael Valentine, 20% Stiling, 10% Cleary Ranch, 10% Roberts Road). Clones are 65% 667, 25% Swan, 5% 115 and 5% 777. 15% whole cluster fermentation. Aged in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. A mix of cherry and berry aromas lead off. Engaging flavor and phenolic ripeness despite the low ABV. A mix of black raspberry and boysenberry fruit offers tantalizing juiciness and the right touch of oak. The tannic backbone is perfectly integrated, and the startling finish has a captivating intensity that is rarely met with. Score: 93. Reviewed October 2, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Eric Kent Sascha Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.60, 306 cases, $52. Sourced mainly from Roberts Road Vineyard located in the eastern Petaluma Gap region combined with contributions from four other sites. 56% Roberts Road, 16% Stiling, 16% Grand Vent, 8% V-C Ranch and 4% Rayhill. Clones are 44% Swan, 28% 777, 18% Pommard, 4.5% 115, 3% 113 and 2.5% 667. Aged in French oak barrels, 60% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Flirtatious aromas of cherry pie, hazelnut and baking spices. Plenty of sappy Bing cherry fruit accented with spice. Sleek and forward drinking in a mid weight plus, generously fruity style that extends enough juicy acidity for admirable balance. This wine has that charming pinotosity that is impossible to describe but you know it when you experience it. Score: 94. Reviewed October 2, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Sojourn Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.57,1,350 cases, $59. Released spring 2016. Sourced from Roberts Road Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap region. Clones 115, 777 and Swan. Grapes were allowed to hang on the vine until late harvest. 100% destemmed, native yeast fermentation, aged in 50% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered August 2015. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The intoxicating nose is complex, offering scents of cherry, strawberry, spice, earth and exotic bouquet. A vibrant wine on the palate that features well-spiced redder fruits framed by poised acidity and toned tannins. Silky in texture, and deftly balanced, with an intensely fruited finish reminiscent of a perfectly ripened, sweet strawberry. This wine is the best I have ever tasted from this vineyard. Score: 95. Reviewed May 11, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 890 cases, $38. Greg La Follette has worked with Sangiacomo vineyards since 1984. This bottling is from Roberts Road Vineyard, planted in 1998 in the Petaluma Gap. Old Wente clone. An intentionally reductive style using native yeasts. Lees contact was maintained throughout the 10 month aging process along with gentle batonnage until the beginning of spring. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The complex nose offers a variety of aromas including lemon oil, yellow peach, toasted brioche, spice and caramel, elevating in intensity over time in the glass. Mildly creamy and plush on the palate, with flavors of lemon drop, yellow peach, baked pear, vanilla and dark toast. The oak input is not shy, but doesn’t overwhelm, and with balanced acidity and a clean, dry finish there is much to like. Score: 90. Reviewed April 22, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Sojourn Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.60, 600 cases, $38. Release in spring 2015. A blend from several vineyards including Sangiacomo Vella and Green Acres ranches, Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard, Durell Vineyard, and Campbell Ranch Vineyard. Each component was fermented separately with native yeast in French oak barrels, 30% new and underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. Regular lees stirring was performed during the first three months of fermentation and aging. After 11 months, the components were blend to create a winemaker’s cuvée, and bottled unfined. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of lemon cake, nutty spread and floral bouquet. Some richness of lemon, honey and caramel flavor with a noticeable oak overlay. Slightly creamy, finishing with a subtle saline note. Score: 89. Reviewed May 14, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Sojourn Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.69, TA 0.56, 1,750 cases, $39. Release in spring 2015. A blend of eight lots from the Sojourn stall of vineyard sources with Gap’s Crown and Sangiacomo vineyards making up the majority of the blend. A mix of clones 115, “828,” 667, Pommard and 2A. 100% destemmed, native yeast fermentation, aged in 50% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very fragrant with vibrant aromas of black cherry, raspberry, cardamom spice and a hint of toast and smoke. Mid weight plus core of earth-kissed flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, cassis, black tea and dark chocolate brownie. Nicely balanced tannins, good vibrancy, and a lengthy finish boasting plenty of spiced plum flavor. A very good AVA wine. Score: 89. Reviewed May 14, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Eric Kent Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.2% alc., pH 3.36, TA 0.63, 341 cases, $42. Released spring 2015. 50% Stiling, 36% Black Emerald, and 14% Roberts Road vineyards. 50% Rued clone, 36% clone 4 and 14% Robert Young clone. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The nose is pleasant but not particularly complex, offering the aroma of cut apple. More interesting on the palate, with flavors of lemon, pomelo and toffee backed by vibrant acidity. Nicely balanced, with modest richness and fullness on the palate. Score: 89. Reviewed January 17, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Sojourn Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.65, TA 0.62, 325 cases, $45. Release in spring 2015. A combination of Old Wente clone from Sangiacomo Vella Ranch (planted in 1997) and clone 95 from Roberts Road Vineyard (planted in 1998). Whole cluster pressed, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged in French oak barrels, 30% new and bottled unfined. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. A refined and classy wine with aromas of pear, melon and lychee. Crisp flavors of citrus, pear and nutty oak are complimentary. Very clean with good cut and a refreshing finish. Score: 91. Reviewed May 14, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Eric Kent Sascha Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.61, 296 cases, $52. Released spring 2015. 67% Sangiacomo Roberts Road, 25% Grand Vent and 8% Stiling vineyards. 42% Swan, 33% 777, 12.5% Pommard, 6.25% 113, 6.25% 667. Intended to be a fuller-bodied style of Pinot Noir composed of more dramatically flavored Sonoma Coast barrels. Historically, tight on release. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of cherry pie, plum and dark chocolate are echoed on the mid weight palate. Noticeable mid palate fruit presence with a waft of toasty oak in the background. More sap than the Small Town bottling. Still tight and will benefit from more time in the cellar. Score: 89. Reviewed January 17, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Sojourn Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.58, 1,250 cases, $54. Vineyard is located on Roberts Road at the base of Sonoma Mountain. Clone 115, 777, and small amounts of Swan selection. 100% de-stemmed, native yeast fermentation, aged in 50% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The deep aroma of cherries is accented with scents of wooded forest, bark and potpourri. Redder fruits are featured in this middleweight wine which offers crisp, clean flavors, modest fine-grain tannins and a pleasing cherry-fueled finish kissed by oak. Score: 92. Reviewed May 14, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Blagden Sangiacomo - Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.77, TA 0.50, 200 cases, $58. Released March 2018. Winner of 11th Annual International Women’s Winemaking Competition. Clones 115, Swan and 777. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, native fermentation in open-top fermenters, inoculated for malolactic fermentation, and aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 38% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of black cherry, floral perfume and a hint of vanilla. Expansive flavors of black raspberry and boysenberry are framed by sleek tannins creating a comforting mouthfeel. More ripeness and extraction in this vintage compared to the 2012 bottling. There is a light imprint of toasty oak. Score: 91. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Pali Wine Co. Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

15.5% alc., 117 cases, $58. Bottled April 2015. Vineyard planted in 1998 by the Sangiacomo family. Aged 18 months in 100% French oak barrels, 45% new. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. The nose leads with very ripe berry flavors with hints of sassafras and sandalwood. Soft and velvety on the palate, with a charge of well-ripened dark red and purple fruits engulfing the mouth with richness, accented with generous oak that contributes toast, spice and dark chocolate highlights. The finish is well-endowed with plump fruit. Score: 89. Reviewed September 18, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Saxon Brown Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 176 cases, $58. Vineyard is located at the western base of Sonoma Mountain. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Highly aromatic, offering a perfume of strawberry, candied cherry and toasty oak. A cherry-fueled wine with a halo of oak that tends to dominate the fruit. Silky and smooth with harmonious tannins and pleasing acidity. This wine will be favored by those who prefer noticeable oak overlay in Pinot Noir. Score: 89. Reviewed April 2, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Saxon-Brown Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc.. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Inviting aromas of dark red berries and a touch of bramble. Mid weight plus deeply flavored berry and cherry fruits with a savory oak note in the background. Velvety in the mouth with some finishing drive. Score: 90-91. Reviewed April 4, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Anaba Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.56, 1,576 cases, $34. A blend of select lots from Roberts Road, Dutton Ranch, Las Brisas and Tina Marie vineyards. Clones 115, Pommard, 667 and 777. Harvest Brix 22.9º-24.2º. 12% whole cluster, 4 to 6-day cold soak, native fermentation, basket pressed when dry. Aged 11 months sur lees in 40% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple hue in the glass. Pleasant aromas of cherry, pomegranate and toasty oak which gain in appeal over time in the glass. Full-bodied, rich flavors of cherry, blueberry, and raspberry underpinned with spicy oak. The balance of sinewy tannins and acidity is spot on and there is some finishing length. A solid, dependable offering year in and year out. Score: 89. Reviewed October 6, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Bailiwick Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 100 cases, $38. Sourced from the Sangiacomo Vineyard on Roberts Road at the base of Sonoma Mountain in the Petaluma Gap region of the Sonoma Coast. · Moderately light ruby color in the glass. Highly fragrant nose with aromas of cherry, spice, dark chocolate and toasty oak. Fresh and vivid cherry fruit on the attack, very expansive in the mouth, embellished with generous oak, finishing with persistent spice-dusted cherry goodness. A very appealing wine that is ready for enjoyment now. Score: 92. Reviewed November 19, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Anaba Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.56, 201 cases, $46. This vineyard is located at the base of Sonoma Mountain adjacent Copeland Creek and is farmed by the noted Sangiacomo family. Clone 115 and Pommard. Harvest Brix 23.5º. 12% whole cluster, 4 to 6-day cold soak, native fermentation, basket pressed when dry. Aged 11 months sur lees in 35% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple hue in the glass. This is a spicy wine with appealing aromas and flavors of black raspberry and black cherry. Some oak is at play creating hints of cocoa, vanilla and anise. The fruit veers a bit to the ripe side but is very fresh, juicy and luscious. Still very flavorful the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with an impressively long finish. Score: 91. Reviewed October 6, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Blagden Sangiacomo - Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.60, 220 cases, $48. Released March 2017. Clones 115, Swan and 777. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, native fermentation in open-top fermenters, inoculated for malolactic fermentation, and aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Despite being several years old, this wine benefits from time and was more appealing when tasted a day after opening. Aromas of black cherry, spice and barrique lead to a light to mid weight styled wine featuring black cherry and blueberry fruit flavors. Silky, with good t n’a balance, and elegant composure. There is more oak imprint than I prefer. Score: 90. Reviewed February 23, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Eric Kent Small Town Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.66, 382 cases, $48. Released spring 2014. 44% Cleary Ranch and Michael Valentine, 31% Grand Vent, 13% Stiling, 12% Roberts Road vineyards. Clones 667, 777, Swan, Pommard and 113. Celebrating tens years of wine and art. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Attractive aromas of cherry and baking spices with a little dark chocolate showing up over time. Middleweight flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, cola and sassafras, with a hint of tarry oak and orange zest showing up on the long, palate-cleansing, juicy finish. The tannins are nicely managed and the acid adds zest and vibrancy. Develops more interesting nuances over time in the glass. Score: 93. Reviewed April 19, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Ancillary Cellars Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $50. From Robert’s Road Vineyard, located directly below Gap’s Crown and Sun Chase vineyards. Clones are 115 and Pommard. Aged on the lees for 10 months. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, red berry, Provencal spices and underbrush lead to a light to medium weight core of cherry and strawberry fruits. More savory than the Sun Chase with a vein of herbs in the background. Elegant and easy to drink with supple tannins and some finishing length. Score: 89. Reviewed February 8, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Roadhouse Winery Sonoma Coast Green Label Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.72, TA 0.62, 300 cases, $59. Sourced from Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. Pommard clone. 100% destemmed, 5-day cold soak, 14 days total cuvaison, inoculated fermentations, aged 20 months in 100% French oak barrels, 20% new. Unifined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Intriguing aromas of clove, cardamom, peppercorn, forest floor, mushroom and raisin. Very ripe fruited, featuring flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, and sassafras. Silky smooth on the palate with balanced tannins and a dry, mouthwatering finish. Nicely crafted in a ripe, dark fruited style. Score: 89. Reviewed February 8, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

13.5% alc., pH 3.30, TA 0.66, 510 cases, $38. This vineyard is managed by thirdgeneration farmers, brothers Mike and Steve Sangiacomo with their brother-inlaw, Mike Pucci. Planted in 1998, and located in the Petaluma Gap, the Robert’s Road block is rooted in alluvial soils with tracks of gravel. The vines are farmed to La Follette’s specifications. The clone is Old Wente. Crafted in a reductive style. In 2011, ripening was difficult, so low other Sangiacomo blocks were used to build the trademark richness of this wine. Native primary and secondary fermentations. Aged 10 months sur lie with early bâttonage. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Perfumed aromas of grapefruit pith, lemon, honey, yeasty brioche and popcorn. Delicious on entry and finish with an appealing array of flavors including lemon, green apple, baking spices, even clove, crème brûlée and toasty oak. Very silky and engaging with impeccable balance. Score: 92. Reviewed July 21, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Eric Kent Small Town Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.61, 414 cases,$48. Release Spring 2013. 38% Cleary Ranch and Michael Valentine, 23% Roberts Road, 23% Kiser/Vella, and Stiling. Clones 777, Swan, Pommard, 667, 114 and 115. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Enchanting nose offering aromas of exotically spiced black cherry and plum with a hint of smoky oak. Elegant and soft on the palate, with juicy flavors of black cherries, black raspberries and cardamom spice caressed by gentle tannins and ending on a clean, bright, dark cherry note. One of the most suave Pinots ever from Eric Kent. I like this wine for its seductive character. Reviewed May 5, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 Sojourn Cellars Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 240 cases, $36. This wine is a blend of grapes from two Sangiacomo Vineyards - Roberts Road and Vella. · A medium-bodied Pinot Noir which needs air time to express itself. The nose is replete with rhubarb, exotic woods, toast and Xmas spice. The ripe Pinot fruits tend to the dark flavors and are rustic and tart. The finish delivers a little heat but it is not over the top. Reviewed July 9, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

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