Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery

Articles About Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery

Reviewed Wines

2019 Windy Oaks Estate Escolle Vineyard Clone 943 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 50 cases, $49. Sourced from a small block at Escolle Vineyard that is farmed especially for Windy Oaks. The vineyard is located in the cooler, northern part of the Santa Lucia Highlands, near the well-known Garys’ Vineyard. Native yeast fermentation with elevage in 50% new French oak barrels for 23 months. · Light garnet color in the glass. The nose grows on you over time with aromas of darkest cherry, pomegranate and spice with a woody undertone. Delicious flavors of black cherry and purple berry fruits along with cardamom spice, dark chocolate, and a thin cloak of oak in the background. The tannins are sparse and the finish is moderately long. I have never tasted a 943 clone Pinot Noir that was this good and it makes for a very unique tasting wine. I would prefer less oak intrusion at this stage. Score: 93. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2019 Windy Oaks Estate Mountain Block Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 64 cases, $85. The grapes come from a 1-acre parcel planted to Windy Oaks own cleaned-up version of the special Burgundy clone, sourced from cuttings that Jim originally brought back from an historic, walled grand cru vineyard in Vosne-Romanée. Barrel fermented with native yeasts in a proprietary, custom-crafted, 600L French oak barrel using 100% de-stemmed grapes that were gently crushed. Finished with RC 212 before maturing without racking for 26 months. · Light garnet color in the glass Very seductive perfume of rose petal, Bing cherry, cola, iron filings, and a hint of oak. The deep flavor of cherry creates the sensation of bombs bursting in the mouth. There is an appealing underlying roseate quality, a hint of milk chocolate and a compliment of oak.. A very distinctive and seamless wine with modest tannins and a spirited finish of good generosity. Score: 95. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., $N/A. Fermented in 1-ton, French oak, open-top fermentation tank. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose leads with scents of darker cherry, ripe strawberry and tilled earth. Mid-weight plus in style and somewhat bombastic, with flavors of black cherry and black raspberry. Moe fruit and structure than the Proprietor's Reserve with another layer of flavor intensity that is expansive in the mouth and on the finish. Score: 94. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., $65 (sold out). The winery's signature wine, primarily sourced from the original 3-acre vineyard. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light garnet color in the glass. Very seductive aromas of cherry, spice, wilted rose and graham that build in intensity over time in the glass. Light to mid-weight in concentration, featuring flavors of cherry, raspberry, baking spices and vanilla. Packs more flavor than one would expect with the light color. Minimal tannins, good crispness and a modicum of oak. Score: 93. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Barrel Fermented Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 64 cases, $85. Jim’s comments: “A unique Pinot Noir that is fermented and aged in specially-designed 600L French oak barrels with no punchdowns and the use of indigenous yeast. The result is a wine of unusually rich flavors, texture and delicate complexity, including haunting aromatics and exceptional length. This may be the only version of Pinot Noir made by this method.” Aged 27 months without racking. · Light garnet color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of red and purple berry, cocoa powder and bramble. Light and ephemeral with succulent flavors of red cherry and berry and an appealing underlying earthiness. Excellent harmony, with no oak intrusion and good finishing length. Score: 93. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Le Chaud Special Vineyard Treatment Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 95 cases, $85. The grapes come from an exclusively-farmed vineyard parcel that sees the use of a special piece of machinery that sends a directed blast of super-heated air in rapid motion so as to not harm the vines but gets rid of pests and reduces the need for mildew and botrytis spraying. The result is an effort to be as organic and sustainable as possible and as good as the environment can be. One of the side benefits after five years of trials is the fact that the process also dramatically increases the natural phenolics in the grape skins that are important for flavor and structure of the finished wines. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. A seductive nose leads with aromas of dark red berry, plum, spice and sous-bois. Discrete richness on the palate with flavors that echo the aromas along with a subtle savory note. Impeccable harmony with an aristocratic, silky mouthfeel, suede tannins, and a generous and juicy finish of exceptional length. Deserving of special release. Score: 94. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Deux Grand Crus Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7%, 24 cases, $105. A co-fermentation of two grand crus clones originally from Burgundy (Chambertin and Vosne- Romanée). This special release is from mostly de-stemmed grapes using native yeast fermentation and a long, cool maceration period with gentle hand punch downs before being aged 24 months without racking in a new French oak barrel. The barrel is custom made for the winery with long air-dried, old growth, tight-grained staves, and a long, lower heat toasting process. · Very light ruby red color in the glass. Dreamy aromas of red cherry, baking spice, sandalwood, vanilla and sous-bois. Lighter weighted with gentle power, offering hi-tone fruit flavors of red cherry and raspberry. Soothing and polished, with a subtle oak flourish and a welcome touch of spice. The finish is of grand cru length. This wine has amazing flavor in contrast to its pale color and herein lies the greatness of Pinot Noir. This wine reminds me of a 1990 Domaine Romanée-Conti Romanée-Conti that I drank several years back. It was very light in color and delicately powered yet was definitely one of my most memorable drinking experiences. Clearly, this is not a wine for fruit hedonists. It remained seductive when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 97. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Judy's Block Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 24 cases, $110. Sourced from a half-acre block of Dijon 777 clone. Typically the grapes are blended into the Reserve, but in exceptional years (2009, 2017, and 2018), it is bottled on its own from a single barrel. The grapes are sorted both in the vineyard and again by hand in the cellar with extreme care so that only the very best grapes make it into this wine named after Jim’s wife. Native yeast fermentation and partial whole cluster. Aged for 24 months in French oak barrels. · Light garnet color in the glass. Intriguing nose with forward aromas of warm cherry pie, floral lift, and aged oak. Light to mid-weight in style, with dark red cherry and berry flavors that are broad and envelope the palate, expanding through a lip-smacking and notably lavish finish that lingers for an exceptionally long time. There are spice accents of cardamom and turmeric that I find particularly intriguing. Exquisitely balanced and clearly a special wine. Score: 96. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Special Release Judy’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 23 cases, $110. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose speaks primarily of earthy flora. Very ripefruited in a mid-weight style with flavors of black currant, prune and Nutella. Soft in the mouth with gentle tannins. The deluge of ripe fruit lessens the charm of Pinot Noir for me, but the wine will find attractors. Score: 90. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Windy Oaks Estate Special Burgundy Clone Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 24 cases, $120. The pinnacle of Windy Oaks wines that comes from the oldest parcel of the singular proprietary Burgundy clone block hand tended by Jim at the home estate vineyard. Jim brought the original cuttings to the United States from a grand cru vineyard in Vosne-Romanée. This wine is made in a single barrel lot with native yeast and partial whole cluster fermented grapes, receiving a long, cool maceration, and native malolactic fermentation, with aging on the lees for 27 months in a special custom French barrique made exclusively for Windy Oaks by artisan coopers in Burgundy. This wine is only released in vintages that are deemed to exemplify its special characteristics. · Light garnet color in the glass. Alluring, even spectacular aromas of Bing cherry, cola and spice.. The essence of black cherry is complimented by a savory tone. Substantial flavor that defies the wine's light color. Impeccably balanced with polished tannins and a lush, distinguished finish that goes on and on. Score: 95. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2017 Windy Oaks Estate Eleven:11 Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 49 cases, $58. Jim’s son, Spencer, the Windy Oaks Estate assistant winemaker, makes this unique bottling crafted from Dijon clone 943 and Calera clone. Very different from the main estate offerings, this wine is named for the project’s start date. 100% whole cluster with a long, cool fermentation with foot trodding and hand punch downs before a gentle pressing to used French oak barrels where it was aged for 24 months with no racking. After the extended elevage, this Pinot Noir was treated like a Riserva giving it another full year in tank to mature, then further aging in bottle before release, much like is seen in Brunello and Rioja wines. This strategy creates a more mature, slightly oxidative quality that fans of those wines love. · Light garnet color in the glass. The aromas really jump out of the glass including red cherry, cranberry, baking spice, burnt tobacco and pine sap. Lightly extracted with flavors of red cherry and strawberry with a spicy riff. Plenty of Pinot charm in a delicate but satisfying style with gentle tannins, subtle whole cluster input and fruit flavors that build in intensity on the finish. A very distinctive wine. Score: 93. Reviewed April 24, 2022 ARTICLE »

2016 Windy Oaks Estate Terra Narro Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. A simple and forward-drinking wine in a lighter weighted style featuring aromas and flavors of plump, red cherry, strawberry, savory herbs and toasty oak. The wine finishes on a dry, but not astringent note. Score: 89. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 Windy Oaks Old Vine Chalone Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $65. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Very sexy nose brimming with wondrous aromas of spiced cherry, earthy flora and flowery underbrush. The beautifully ripened cherry core is annotated with notes of spice, cola, mushroom and savory herbs. Impressive harmony, with refined tannins, an expansive mid palate and like the energizer bunny, the finish kept going and going. Score: 94. Reviewed August 29, 2020 ARTICLE »

2016 Windy Oaks Estate Special Release Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 65 cases, $78. Vinified in a 600L oak barrel made by Tonnellerie Sylvian in Bordeaux. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with bright aromas of blueberry, black cherry, raspberry, toast and spice. Richly endowed with black cherry cola flavor underlain with nutty oak accents. The fruit is mouth filling and nicely ripened. Tame, fine-grain tannins appear on the finish. This wine was more cohesive and expressive with better oak integration when tasted the following day indicating it will benefit from more time in bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Windy Oaks Estate Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.5% alc., 72 cases, $45. Crushed, fermented, aged and bottled at Windy Oaks Estate in Corralitos. · Light golden yellow and unfiltered in appearance in the glass. Engaging scents of lemon oil, white peach, spice and sawn oak. Even more pleasing on the palate, with fresh flavors of pear and white peach with a compliment of supportive oak. Somewhat delicate in style, with well integrated acidity. Score: 92. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 296 cases, $39. A blend of 5 clones. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Soaring aromas of dark berry and cherry, rose and spice and a subtle touch of oak. The party continues on the mid weight palate that offers a wholesome attack of black cherry fruit accented with baking spices. Very fine grain tannins, juicy acidity and welcome intensity and length on the finish. A forward drinking offering that builds in appeal over time in the glass. Score: 93. Reviewed April 19, 2017 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Old Vine Estate Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.8% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.63, 71 cases, $55. Sourced from Miller Family Vineyard consisting of 1 acre planted in the early 1960s on a ridge 900 feet above Monterey Bay. Windy Oaks Estate manages the vineyard. Barrel fermented and aged 18 months with lees stirring through malolactic fermentation in once and twice-used French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. The nose is a bit atypical yet offers some traditional aromas of lemon, apple and straw. More enjoyable on the slightly creamy palate, with intricate flavors of lemon, pineapple, grapefruit, apple, burnt caramel and petrol, shepherded by brisk acidity. Score: 87. Reviewed December 1, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Limited Release 100% Wild Yeast Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 72 cases, $58 (wine club and tasting room only). Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Plenty of appealing aromas of red cherry and berry, spice, underbrush and white pepper that are more showy when the wine was tasted the following day. The black cherry core of fruit has noticeable presence on the mid weight palate, working in harmony with compatible tannins. The mouthfeel is seductively silky, there is a tasty spice and floral thread, and some finishing persistence. Oak is definitely involved, but less so when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed April 19, 2017 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Limited Release Wood Tank Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 106 cases, $58. Fermented up to eight weeks in one-ton, French oak, open-top fermentation tanks. Aged 21 months in French oak barrels, 45% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. I couldn’t stop sticking my nose in the glass as the aromas of cherry, spice cabinet and marzipan were mesmerizing. Light to mid weight in style, with a redder fruited core that is embellished with wood-driven spice and nuttiness. Noticeable but not intrusive tannins and a lip-smacking finish complete the experience. There is more barrel presence in this wine but it enhances rather than detracts. Score: 92. Reviewed April 19, 2017 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Old Vine Chalone Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.68, 48 cases, $65. These sourced old vine grapes were crushed, fermented, aged and bottled at Windy Oaks Estate. Dick Graff took over Chalone Vineyard in the Gavilan Mountains in the mid 1960s. The vines had been originally planted by a Frenchman in 1919. Graff nursed the vines back to health and planted new vines. This bottling is the result of a small allocation from Graff’s early plantings. Partial native fermentation, 50% whole cluster, aged 21 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Complex aromatic gifts including black cherry, sous-bois, briar, spice and nutty oak, reaching more heights with time in the glass. A connoisseur’s wine that is not propelled by rich fruit but rather by nuance and complexity. Mid weight flavors of cherry, red berry and spice are surprisingly intense considering the light color of the wine. Elegantly crafted and perfectly balanced, with fine grain tannins, juicy acidity, and an astonishingly long, orgasmic finish. This wine brought back memories of my encounter with a 1990 DRC Romanée-Conti wine many years ago. Not a powerhouse, but like an angel that is heaven sent. Score: 97. Reviewed December 1, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Windy Oaks Old Vine Chalone Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.68, 48 cases, $65. sourced from Graff’s early plantings of Pinot Noir that were established using 1946 Chalone Vineyard cuttings. 50% whole cluster, aged 21 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Complex aromatic gifts including black cherry, sous-bois, briar, spice and nutty oak, reaching new heights with time in the glass. A connoisseur’s wine that is not propelled by rich fruit, but rather by nuance and complexity. The midweight flavors of cherry, red berry and spice are surprisingly intense considering the lighter color of the wine. Elegantly crafted and perfectly balanced, with finegrain tannins, juicy acidity and an astonishingly long, orgasmic finish. This wine brought back memories of my encounter with a 1990 DRC Romanée-Conti wine many years ago. Not a powerhouse, but delicate like an angel that is heaven sent. Score: 97. Reviewed August 29, 2020 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Terra Narro Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Scents of cherry, raspberry and oak spice hold up nicely over time in the glass. A light to mid weight red cherry-driven wine with complimentary oak seasoning and supple tannins. Very demure, with a modest attack and finish. An easy drinker that will compliment any picnic. Score: 88. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Terra Narro Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29. Unfined and unfiltered. This wine serves as an introduction to the Windy Oaks style as an everyday drinking wine. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but pleasing aromas of cherry, baking spices and red rose petal. Light to mid weight crisp and bright flavors of red cherry with a hint of red licorice and cola. A solid forward drinking wine with supple tannins and welcome acidity. Score: 89. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $39. 100% estate fruit from the 15-acre Schultze Family Vineyard at the southern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA in Corralitos. Five clones. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. The nose personifies what I love about the Pinot nose: aromas of cherry, spice, rose petal and sandalwood. Delicious core of well ripened black cherry fruit, accented with a hint of white pepper and other spices and root beer. Very sleek and silky, with suede tannins and an elegant, charming presence. The preverbal iron fist in a velvet glove. Score: 94. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Charmant Mountain Vineyard Diane’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $45. A 5-acre, former apple orchard, 600 feet above Monterey Bay, slight warmer than the Schultze Family Vineyard. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Deep cherry aromas with a hint of rose petal. Forward drinking, mid weight plus flavors of black cherry framed by balanced dry tannins and a touch of oak. Seductive and silky in the mouth, with a broad-shouldered display of fruit on the finish. The beauty of this wine lies in the silky texture. Score: 93. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $55. A limited release wine that features the unique aromas of wild yeast fermentation. Available to wine group members and visitors to tasting room. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Interesting aromas of lees, black cherry, spice cake, mushroom and a touch of oak. Light to mid weight flavors of red cherry and blueberry in a vibrant style with lifted acidity, balanced tannins, and a modest finish. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $58. Wine club and tasting room only. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light reddish purple hue in the glass (whole cluster fermented wines tend to have lighter color). The whole cluster driven aromas include cherry, red berry, dusty rose and spice. Highly flavorful, offering a deep cherry essence with a subtle underpinning of floral and vegetative notes framed by dry, fine-grain tannins. The finish is flush with cherry fruit and exotic spice accents. Score: 93. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $58. Wine club and tasting room only. Fermented up to 8 weeks in French oak, 1-ton, open fermentation tanks. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Pleasing fusion of black cherry and toasted oak on the nose. The mid weight core of black cherry and plum fruit flavors is encased in a cloak of oak that is well-tailored to the fruit. The wine is nuanced with flavors of cumin and other chili spices, and bourbon. Slightly more concentrated than the other two 2013 wines reviewed here, with welcome silky tannins and a bright finish. This wine shows the best side of a fruit and oak marriage. Score: 92. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 554 cases, $65 (wine club members and tasting room only). The winery’s signature wine, primarily made from the 1.5-acre Bay Block planting of the original 3-acre vineyard. Aged 24 months in French oak barrels, 65% new. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Demure aroma of cherry pie filling with a hint of oak and barnyard. Lighter weighted, delicate flavors of cherry and cranberry accented with spicy oak amid a frame of gossamer tannins. Very easy going and elegant, bordering on austere. This bottle did not capture my fancy as much as a bottle sampled a year ago. Score: 88. Reviewed April 19, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $65. Wine club and tasting room only. Primarily from the 1.5-acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre vineyard planting. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. An array of fruit aromas and flavors include cranberry, cherry and blueberry accented by a subtle nutty oak seasoning in the background. Seamless, elegant and very friendly with an admirable attack and satisfying finish. Less adventurous and more traditional in style than the Limited Release wines. Score: 92. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Les Deux Grands Cru Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.69, 24 cases, $105. Estate grown, produced and bottled. This single barrel was so outstanding that it was deserving of its own special release. Partial native fermentation, 30% whole cluster, aged in a single new French oak barrel for 25 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. · Aromas of fresh berries plucked from the vine, cherry, spice and a touch of barnyard. Tremendous attack of black cherry fruit with accents of rhubarb and baking spices, and a hint of nutty, toasty oak. The texture is dreamy and the finish goes on and on. Even better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, with round shoulders, soaring aromas, and flavors of spiced cherries wrapped up in an elegant package. Score: 96. Reviewed December 1, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Terra Narro Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Expressive aromas of black cherry, rose petal, cedar and sandalwood hold up nicely over time in the glass. Moderately light on the palate with pleasing flavors of red cherry and supportive oak. A forward-drinking, friendly wine with juicy acidity. Score: 89. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $39. A mix of 5 clones from the estate home vineyard. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very floral initially, becoming more fruity over time. Intoxicating aromas of spice-infused cherries, roses, herbs, and subtle oak. Delicious essence of fresh cherries with an amalgam of accents including spice, cola, graham and anise. Modest in weight and very polished, with balanced tannins and a lengthy finish filled with cherry goodness. Score: 92. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Diane’s Block Klein Family Mountain Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $45. Grown on a 5-acre slightly warmer site at a lower elevation than the Schultze Family Vineyard. The vineyard is located in an old apple orchard perched 600 feet above Monterey Bay adjacent Schultze Family Vineyard. · Modest reddish purple color in the glass. Plenty to discover in the nose which offers aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, spice, cola and leather glove. Welcome fullness and roundness to the sweet cherry-driven core of fruit complimented by subtle oak highlights. Impeccable balance and easy accessibility with a pleasingly silken finish. Score: 93. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard 1-Acre Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.9% alc., $45. Barrel fermented, aged in French oak barrels for 15 months. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate golden straw color and clear in the glass. This is a pristine Chardonnay with aromas of citrus, nut oils, char and flint and flavors of lemon zest and yellow apple. Crisp and clean and slightly creamy on the palate with an appealing flinty minerality and good finishing intensity. Score: 90. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Henry’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. From a 1-acre block in the oldest part of the original 3-acre estate vineyard planted to Wädenswil 2A clone. Unfined and unfiltered. Available only through Wine Group or tasting room. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas of fresh mashed berries and cherries draw you into the glass. The core of oak-kissed dark red cherry fruit is mouthwatering and expansive, holding more concentration that the Proprietor’s Reserve. A slick texture and balanced tannins enhance the experience. Quite forward and pleasing now. Score: 93. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Limited Release-100% Whole Cluster Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $55. Unfined and unfiltered. Available only to Wine Group members and at the tasting room. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Distinctive and interesting, this wine offers aromas and flavors of cherry, spice and floral accents with perfect oak integration, modest, smooth tannins, and a tenacious finish. There is a hard-to-describe textural feature that I find very appealing. Score: 93. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Limited Release-Wood Tank Fermented Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $55. Fermented up to 2 months in French, 1-ton, open fermentation tanks. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very giving on the nose, with bright aromas of black cherry, spice and dark red rose. A very charming wine with a full attack and finish, featuring a succulent core of dark cherry fruit accented with oak seasoning. Discreetly concentrated with balanced tannins and an elegant demeanor. Score: 92. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $60. Primarily from the 1.5-acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre vineyard. Unfined and unfiltered. Available only to Wine Group members and at the tasting room. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Enticing aromas of blueberry, cherry, Damsel plum, and nutty oak, picking up more cherry goodness over time in the glass. On entry, the attack of mid weight black cherry, plum, raspberry and spice flavors are tantalizing and persistent. The wine’s juicy acidity and modest tannins bring out the best of the fruit in this well-rounded and beautifully composed wine that finishes on a high note with plenty of well-spiced fruit. Score: 92. Reviewed April 20, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Windy Oaks Estate Special Release Les Deux Grands Cru Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., one barrel (24 cases), $85 (futures). Offered to Wine Group members only. A co-fermentation of the estate vineyard special Burgundy clone and a little half-acre of the newly certified Chambertin clone. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very pleasing aromas of cherry and red berry with a compliment of toasty brioche. Light to medium weight flavors of red berry preserves with a seasoning of oak. Softly textured with admirable balance, and a long red cherry and red berry fueled finish. This wine grows on you over time in the glass, picking up intensity and nuances. A cellar-worthy wine of considerable promise. Score: 92-93. Reviewed December 10, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Special Burgundy Clone Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 24 cases, $87.50. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, rose petal, spice, and sandalwood leap from the glass. Very refined on the palate, with mid weight flavors of black cherry and spice. The tannins are structured but soft, there is a pleasant hint of oak seasoning, and the finish is generously endowed with cherry fruit. Still highly aromatic and full of flavor the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 92. Reviewed July 12, 2015 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Henry’s Block Schulte Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Initially demure aromas of cherry fruit pick up intensity over time in the glass. Silky, with suave tannins in a mid weight style, offering flavors of oak-kissed black cherry and cola. Finishes with a generous cherry-themed charge. Drink now to 2023. Score: 91. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The bouquet speaks of herbs, vegetation, turned earth, sandalwood and spice. Light to mid weight flavors of red cherry and cranberry. The tannins supersede the fruit sap. Lacks interest and intensity and reflective of this vintage. Drink up. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The fruit is faded, replaced with nutty oak bouquet and a slight oxidized note of sherry. Light in weight and lacking enthusiasm, this wine features flavors of red cherry and cranberry framed by gentle tannins. This wine will not improve with further aging and is a victim of the vintage. Drink up. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

% alc.. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Inviting aromas of black cherry, dark berry, toast and woodland spice. Beautifully composed, with mid weight flavors of vivacious black cherry and blackberry fruits. Silky in the mouth with fully merged tannins. This wine seduces with its harmony. Drink now to 2025. Score: 93. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery Henry’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

Sourced from estate vineyard’s original plantings, 17th leaf (1996), Wädenswil clone in the Corralitos sub-region. Clay soils with underlain sandstone, that have low nutrients and lead to low vigor. Very cool, rugged terrain with significant maritime influence. 50% native yeast, 25% whole cluster, long fermentation of 39 days, over 17 months in barrel. 104 cases. · Nicely perfumed with aromas of dark cherries, spice and nutty oak. Moderately full and rich featuring bright flavors of fresh black cherries with hints of mocha and hazelnut. Very vivid fruit with an intense, long finish. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Terra Narro Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 374 cases, $29. Entry-level, value-priced wine composed of most blocks from the estate vineyard. Aged 17 months in 35% new French oak barrels. · A very pleasant wine, aromatic and flavorful, light in body with supple tannins, featuring red cherry and cranberry fruit, a hint of oak, and a citrus-imbued cherry finish. Good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Terra Narro Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Complex array of aromas including spicy plum, red raspberry, clove, Asian 5-spice, pepper and a hint of oak. Straight forward and easy to drink, featuring dark red berries and spice backed by a generous tug of oak. Score: 87. Reviewed September 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate One Acre Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.9% alc., $39. Barrel fermented for a minimum of 15 months in French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. Reviewed at home. · Golden straw color in the glass. Aromas of lemon, flint, iron, croissant and oak. Creamy on the palate, with refined flavors of fresh citrus fruits, peaches on the grill, vanilla cream, oak and a touch of iron. Very soft in the mouth with nicely integrated acidity. Less fruit-driven than previous vintages, but more refined, sophisticated and mineral-inspired. Score: 94. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Diane’s Block Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 192 cases, $45. From a 5-acre block, all estate, at a lower elevation. Clones 115 and 667. Aged 17 months in 0% new oak. Always a favorite of women. Unusual in this cool vintage. · Slightly carbonic nose, with aromas of flowers and berries. Fruit-forward, featuring cherry and raspberry with some spice and savory herb notes. Light, with little finishing power. Decent. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate 100% Whole Cluster Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 191 cases, $55. Wine club and tasting room only. Focus on clone 667 with some 115. Aged 17 months in 60% new French oak barrels. Very long fermentation. · Very complex nose offering scents of dark cherries, dried rose petals, baking spices, and herb garden. Highly approachable, with a very savory character offering flavors of mushrooms, smoky herbs and earthy fruits. Very good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55 (wine club and tasting room only). Estate grown, produced and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose draws you in with aromas of dark red cherry pie glaze, baking spices including nutmeg, graham, black oak and dried rose petals. An earthy wine with plentiful dark red cherry and berry flavor and a complimentary oak and leesy accent. Very well crafted with a silky presence and some finishing aplomb. Score: 90. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. Estate grown, produced and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Fermented up to 8 weeks in French oak, one-ton, open fermentation tanks. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is both complex and interesting, offering aromas of cherry, baking spice, mocha, and graham. Crisp on the mid palate with vigorous flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, and toasty oak, finishing with a long and juicy, oak-kissed cherry riff. Easy to like now. Score: 91. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 123 cases, $55. 100% wild yeast fermented. Aged 18 months in 40% new French oak barrels. Tasting room or wine club members only. · Attention-grabbing nose of spiced cherries and sandalwood. A bit exotic and leesy, with considerable nuance. Very elegant and dreamy on the palate. Exceptional. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 364 cases, $60. From the 1.5-acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre vineyard. Available to wine club members and through the tasting room. Aged 22 months in 55% new French oak barrels. A barrel selection. Primarily Pommard 5 and 115. · Rather shy but appealing nose with scents of cranberries, pomegranates and black cherries. More fruit concentration and the biggest, longest finish in the lineup. I like this wine for its power without weight and excellent integration of oak. Exceptional. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $60 (wine club or tasting room only). The winery’s signature wine, primarily sourced from the 1.5-acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre planting. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Dark red cherries and berries and spice are featured on the precocious nose. Delicious core of mid weight dark red Bing cherry, blueberry and blackberry flavors accented with well-integrated oak-driven notes of vanilla and dark chocolate. More concentration and richness in this bottling, with more spirit, and a grand cru finish of extraordinary length. Score: 93. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Special Burgundy Clone Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 12 cases, $87.50. · Moderately light crimson color in the glass. Rewarding aromas of Bing cherry, spice and toasty oak. Satiny and seductive on the palate, with flavorful spiced black cherry fruit with a noticeable overlay of oak. Still sporting tannins that are not intrusive, and overall elegant and appealing. Score: 90. Reviewed July 12, 2015 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 173 cases. · Moderately light reddish-purple hue in the glass. Enticing aromas of exotically spiced cherries, potpourri and oak vanillin. Delicious core of black cherry fruit embellished with baking spice and complimentary oak. Very seductive and beautifully composed with a dreamy texture and an explosive finish. Outstanding. Reviewed July 21, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but welcoming bouquet of wild berries, marzipan and vanilla with a hint of “wet dog.” Polished and charming, with good freshness, featuring mid weight flavors of black cherry and black raspberry. The wine’s youthful character reminds one of a just released wine. Impressive balance. Drink now to 2025. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose leads with bright aromas of warm cherry pie, spice, baked bread and sandalwood. Tastes like a recently released wine with a mid weight plus core of vivid black cherry fruit accented with a complex spice and herb mix. The tannins are suave and the texture is velvety. I liked this wine. Drink now to 2023. Score: 93. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Henry’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $49. Wine club or tasting room only. From a 1-acre block in the oldest part of the original 3-acre estate vineyard featuring Wädenswil clone. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Fragrant with very ripe black cherry and currant fruit aromas associated with hints of spice, floral notes, and toffee. Very ripe, dark fruited featuring black cherries, black plums, sassafras, and slight prune. Silky with well-proportioned tannins, finishing with impressive length. I am not usually a big fan of Wädenswil as a stand-alone clone Pinot Noir, but in the right site as demonstrated here, can make a different, interesting wine. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 173 cases, $55. 100% whole cluster protocol is unusual, even in Burgundy. Aged 21 months in 45% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Remarkably effusive aromas of black cherries, vanilla, musk and spice. Delicious essence of fresh black cherry pie with subtle notes of baking spices, cola, and oak. Almost creamy, with moderate fine-grain tannins. Discreetly rich and fully ripe fruit with a striking note of cherry on the finish. The whole cluster fermentation confers a seductive mouth feel and a charming spice note. Very special. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. Available only to Windy Oaks Wine Group members and at the tasting room. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Brooding aromas of deep red cherries, dark berries, spice and oak vanillin. Middleweight flavors of darker red stone fruits and berries with a savory undertone. Soft and elegant with respectable length, showing firm tannins and a hint of stem. A little more open and appealing the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Not as good as the bottle of this wine I reviewed earlier in the year. Good (+). Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of ripe cherries and berries with appealing spice. Deep, dark red cherry and berry flavors with a note of cola and sarsaparilla. Easy going and silky in the mouth with a dry, noticeably generous finish. Score: 90. Reviewed September 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. Fermented up to 8 weeks in 1-ton, open fermentation French oak tanks. · Medium garnet color in the glass. This wine has the type of nose that drives pinotphiles crazy. Effusive aromas of dark red cherries and berries, dark red rose petals and spice. Moderately rich dark red cherry and raspberry fruits accented with caramelized oak and spice. The tannins are a little more aggressive in this wine but they are not obtrusive and will moderate with time. I like this charming wine for its additional complimentary oak contributions including the exotic spice that marries with Pinot fruit so well. Rare to find an oak tank fermented Pinot Noir in California since it is more challenging to successfully vinify. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $60. Wine club or tasting room only. 15-acre vineyard 900 feet above Monterey Bay at the southern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. Estate grown, produced and bottled. Windy Oaks’ signature wine, primarily from the 1.5- acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre vineyard.Unfined and unfiltered. · Demure but pleasant perfume of dark red fruits, rosewood, rose petals and spice. The core of dark cherries and raspberries is fresh and alive, accented with notes of oak-driven herb, mocha and caramel. Juicy, with bright acidity, ripe tannins, and some length on the finish. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $60. Signature wine primarily from the 1.5-acre Bay Block of the original 3-acre vineyard. Unfined and unfiltered. Available only to Windy Oaks Wine Group members and at the tasting room. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely perfume of fresh cherry pie filling, baking spices, compost and sandalwood. Light and elegant, gentle and calming, this wine offers flavors of red cherries, strawberries and spice balanced with ripe tannins and lively acidity. The cherry flavor holds on tight on the long finish. A little lighter in this vintage and needs more time in the cellar for the tannins to recede. Very good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Well-appointed aromas of dark cherry, burnt tobacco, toasted marshmallow with hints of toasty oak and medicine cabinet. Velvety on the palate and blessed with a discreet array of flavors including dark cherry, cola, black tea and dry-aged steak. Spirited upon opening but fades in appeal over time. A fine aged Pinot Noir that has seen better days. Score: 91. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, blueberry and prune lead to a charge of black cherry fruit that embosses the mid palate. Compatible tannic support with deft oak input. The overall balance is impressive. Drink now to 2023. Score: 91. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Complex bouquet of dark red cherry and berry, woodland spice, rose petal, marzipan, vanilla and stem. Very tasty core of middleweight cherry fruit with impressive mid palate intensity and remarkable persistence. Subtle tertiary notes of tea, root beer, chocolate and mushroom. Inviting harmony, with a silky mouthfeel and an appealing freshness. The fruit is not dried out at all. Enjoy this now through 2025. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Appealing aromas of cherry, dried plum, wilted rose and grilling spices. Very fresh, with a compatible mix of cherry fruit and oak spice and toast. Silken in texture, with some tannins in the background. The oak has superseded the fruit with age. Drink now to 2020. Score: 89. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate One Acre Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.9% alc., 131 cases, $38 (Sold out). Aged 15 months in 33% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light straw color in the glass. Interesting aromas of apple, brioche, oregano and savory spices with subtle oak. Good richness of flavor offering citrus, Asian pear, vanilla, banana, and oak-derived toffee in the background. An exotic tasting Chardonnay that avoids the mainstream trap and I applaud the wine for its uniqueness. Good. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 133 cases, $55. Aged 17 months in 65% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Unique aromatic profile featuring scents of cherries, wild marionberries, oak cask, raisin and fresh fig. The flavors echo the nose with cherry notes that are especially vivid. A riper fruit profile wine with appealing restraint and remarkable persistence on the finish. Very good. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Limited Release Wild Yeast Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $55. Wine club or tasting room only. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Slightly funky, yeasty nose with bright black cherry fruit aromas. Mid weight core of darker red cherries and berries with a crisp, red berry driven finish. Moderately firm grip of tannin with plenty of oak flourish. I have mixed feelings about this one and this may not be a representative bottle. Good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $60. · Brooding but alluring perfume of black plums, blackberries and black currants. Moderate purple-red color in the glass. Middle weighted but full flavored fruit that really strikes a chord. Offering an array of red and black fruits with faint oak and dark chocolate accents, this sleek and silky wine has a memorable finish with lingering aromatic interest. Best ever Proprietor’s Reserve from Windy Oaks. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Special Burgundy Clone Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $75. Unfined and unfiltered. This wine was very favorably reviewed in December 2012, but this bottle either aged prematurely due to oxidation (doubtful since the long cork took a superhuman effort to extract) or has taken a rather rapid aging trajectory since 2012. · Light crimson in color in the glass. Aged nose profile with scents of cherry compote, cranberry, and hung game. Middleweight flavors of black cherry, dark raspberry and spice cake with some cherry-driven finishing intensity. Very soft in the mouth with heat showing up at the end. Completely shot the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Not scored. Reviewed July 12, 2015 ARTICLE »

2008 Windy Oaks Estate Special Burgundy Clone Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $75. Very limited. From a special half-acre section of the vineyard that is carefully hand-tended exclusively by Jim Schultze. The clone is a rarely propagated French Pinot Noir clone not available in the United States. Aged 27 months in 100% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A very polished and sophisticated offering that reminds me of a Frédéric Mugnier wine from Chambolle-Musigny. Deep cherry and spice aromas and flavors that take on an extraordinary appeal over extended time, seemingly partnering with the glass. Comforting and silky with soft tannins and beautifully integrated oak. Very food friendly (try roast chicken). My wife was impressed and that is saying something. Still great the next day when we finished the bottle. Truly in a class by itself. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. This wine is oxidized, with aromas of sherry and nail polish remover. Better on the palate, with flavors of black cherry, plum and brown spice with good vitality and some persistence on the finish. This particular bottle is defective but drinkable. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Nice bouquet of black cherry, forest floor and a touch of oak. Exuberant in a mid weight style, with flavors of black cherry and black raspberry framed by supportive tannins. Enjoyable, but leans a little too much on oak. Drink now to 2020. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is a compatible marriage of cherry and sous-bois aromas. Fresh and and juicy on the palate, with flavors of cherry, strawberry and cranberry in a mid weight style with modest persistent tannins and a compliment of oak in the background. Aging beautifully. Drink now to 2022. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Shy fruit aromas of dried plum and prune with a note of earthy flora and oak. Light and weight, even shallow, with flavors of earthen cherry and berry. The tannins are resolved, but some toasty oak remains that supersedes the fading fruit. Drink now to 2020. Score: 88. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. · Moderately light garnet. Gregarious aromas of black cherry reduction sauce and raspberry. Mid weight plus in style, with gratifying flavors of black cherry and pomegranate. Silky in the mouth, with resolved tannins and enough fruit to please on the generous finish. Drink now to 2020. Score: 90. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 360 cases, $38. A blend of clones from the estate vineyard. Aged 16 months in 55% new French oak. · The nose is full of interest with scents of juicy cherries, spice, graham, herbs, oak and a hint of good funkiness. A whiff of alcohol peaks out. Earth-kissed dark red cherry and berry fruit flavors are on the light side but pleasing. Very polished and smooth with supple tannins creating some charming elegance. Decent (+). Reviewed November 13, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 360 cases, $38 (sold out but the 2008 vintage has been released). A blend of all clones from the estate vineyard. Aged 16 months in 55% new French oak. Unfined, unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Very attractive perfume of spiced and confected cherries, cherry cola and red berries. The flavors echo the aromas and are offered in a lightly weighted style with soft, silky tannins. A very solid easy drinker. Very good. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate One Acre Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

138 cases, $38. Sampled with lunch at the winery. This proved to be the top Chardonnay tasted during my week in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Barrel aged 18 months in 33% new French oak. · Bright, crisp and fresh with enough white stone and tropical fruit flavor to thoroughly satisfy. Barrel fermentation has contributed complimentary notes of butter, spice and vanillin. A little minerality creeps in on the finish. I have called this wine “a Kistlerkiller” in the past and I am sticking to my claim. Very good. Reviewed November 13, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release 100% Whole Cluster Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $55. Selection of 4 to 6 whole cluster barrels. Aged 21 months in 50% new French oak. · The fruit is darker-toned in this wine and more intense. Scents of plums and berries, oak toast, spice, and a little fecundity lead to a full palate of loamy black cherry and black raspberry fruit with underpinnings of dark chocolate and grilled meat. Perhaps “down and dirty” is a good descriptive. The tannins are fine-grained and dry, the oak is nicely partnered with the fruit, and the wine has the polished sensuality that drives Pinot lovers crazy. Very good. Reviewed November 13, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 45 cases, $55. Fermented in one-ton, French oak, open fermentation tanks. Aged 21 months in 45% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish-purple hue in the glass. Shy fruit, with more forward aromas of oak and forest floor. Discreetly concentrated core of dark red cherry and berry flavors with cherry clinging to the fruit-laden finish. Silky textured with impeccable balance. Very good. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Limited Release Wild Yeast Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 133 cases, $55. A five barrel selection. Aged 17 months in 65% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Very reserved scent of black cherries and dark red berries with a hint of mint. Pretty tasty black cherry and berry fruit, nicely spiced and earthy, clothed in ripe firm tannins, and harmoniously composed. A solid drink, but doesn’t excite. Good. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $55. Fermented in one-ton French oak open fermentation tanks. Aged 21 months in 75% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light garnet in color in the glass. A striking aromatic profile of cherries, berry pie, sandalwood, spice and a touch of caramel. Charmingly delicate but pleasingly flavored core of redder cherries and berries. Sleek and refined with mild tannins and no oak intrusion, this is a lullaby. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Windy Oaks Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 384 cases, $60. Primarily sourced from the 1.5-acre Bay Block, part of the original 3-acre vineyard. Aged 23 months in 75% new French oak barrels. · Interesting disconnect between the reserved earthy nose and the flavorful fruit core. Shy scents of damp earth, decay, mushroom and oak. Intense flavors of dark red stone fruits and berries with hints of lovely spice, cherry cola and oak. Picks up power and interest over time in the glass offering a persistent tug of tasty strawberry fruit on the finish. Similar to the Estate Cuvée in taste, but ramped up another notch. Very Good Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate brown tinged reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with a bouquet of rose petal, exotic spices, stem and sous-bois. Good vibrancy, with appealing flavors of black cherry, raspberry and spice. Silky on the palate with a juicy finish. This wine has held up remarkably well, but begins to fade over time in the glass. Drink up. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Revealing bouquet of cherry jam, spice, brown sugar and brioche. Tasty cherry core backed by integrated tannins, displaying good acid verve and a decent finish. A nicely aged, comforting Pinot. Drink now to 2020. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Schultze Family Vineyard Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light garnet color with slightest rim yellowing in the glass. Aromas of dried cherry, plum and bark. Light to mid-weight flavors of dark cherry and some oak char wrapped in gossamer tannins. Still fruity but shallow. Elderly, but still some vitality. Drink up. Score: 88. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Dreamy aromas of dried cherry, berry jam and judicious oak. Endowed with generous and well-ripened black cherry fruit underlain with a bit of cola flavor. Impressive attack and persistence on the finish. This wine doesn’t show its age at all! Drink now through 2023. Score: 92. Reviewed December 29, 2018 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 435 cases, $38. 15 months in 50% new French oak barrels. · A softer nose highlighting red fruits, light toast spice and a touch of funk. The red-toned fruit flavors are brisk and refreshing, even a little steely. Very smooth in texture with no obtrusive oak or tannins. Surprisingly good with a pastrami sandwich. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate One Acre Estate Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

13.9% alc., $38. Barrel fermented, aged a minimum of 15 months. Unfined and unfiltered. · Golden yellow, slightly hazy color. Alluring aromas of butter, grapefruit and beeswax. Penetrating flavors of white stone fruits with an echo of oak. The viscous mouth feel is very appealing and the aromatic finish is fruity and lengthy. Reviewed September 5, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Henry’s Block Santa Cruz Mountains PInot Noir

13.9% alc., 145 cases, $45. Named after Judy Schultze’s father, this is 100% Wädenswil clone and from one of the oldest blocks in the vineyard. Aged 21 months in 65% new French oak. · A beautifully composed and balanced Pinot Noir featuring juicy raspberries, herbs, cedar and barnyard on the nose. The flavors follow in step adding a hint of dirt and root beer. Feminine in spirit but packed with flavor, and like all Windy Oaks wines, impeccably balanced. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Wood Tank Fermented Limited Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 47 cases, $55. Aged 21 months in 75% new French oak. · Heavenly and complex nose with a classroom full of black cherry fruit, cola, and cardamon spice. Very flavorful darker red fruits with an underlying earthiness and a citric note on the finish. Not the intensity or punch of the Proprietor’s Reserve, but a perfectly fine drink. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 345 cases, $60. Primarily sourced from the 1.5 acre Bay Block planting of the original 3-acre vineyard. Aged 22 months in 80% new French oak. The signature Windy Oaks Estate wine. · This wine starts out shy and ends in ecstasy. Plenty of patience (foreplay) is required. The nose unfolds to reveal well spiced cherries, sage, vanillin and a touch of flowers. The fruit is demure but surrounds the tongue with fullness. Tangy and spicy with spot on balance. Always the best wine in the Windy Oaks cellar. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 345 cases, $60. Primarily sourced from the original 3-acre block of the vineyard. Aged 22 months in 80% new French oak. · The nose is quite refined with attractive cherry and berry aromas with a touch of oak, green herbs and barnyard. On the palate the wine is strikingly soft and smooth, refined and seamless, with discreetly concentrated fruit encased in caressing tannins. Flavors of currants, baking spice and savory herbs add interest. Very good. Reviewed November 13, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Windy Oaks Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 345 cases, $60. Primarily sourced from a 1.5-acre block planted as part of the original 3-acre vineyard. Aged 22 months in 80% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Bright and intensely perfumed berry and cherry fruit on the nose. Mouth filling core of ripe berry fruit with notes of dried cherry, cassis and spice. A refreshing acid tang frames the aromatic finish. Very Good. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate brown tinged reddish purple color in the glass. This wine was pretty interesting upon opening but faded quickly. Aromas of spice, pine oil and worn leather led to some faded flavors of black cherry, burnt tobacco and spice. Elegant and silky, with immersed tannins and some drive on the finish initially. Drink up. Reviewed February 13, 2017 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

Barrel sample. · WOW! Stunning aromatics of red and blue fruits. Plenty of spiced fruit on a soft and clean platform. Seamless. This one will bring you to your knees. Reviewed September 10, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Reserve Corralitos Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

Very sexy aromatics of strawberries and wild raspberries all dolled up with oak spice. Light on the palate, yet providing plenty of fruit pleasure and ending with refreshing acidity. Reviewed March 23, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Wood Fermented Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

Barrel sample. · More pepper in the nose and spicier on the finish. Soft and smooth as a baby’s bottom. Very unique and great in its own way. Reviewed September 10, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 285 cases, $35. The cuvée is a blend of clones from the estate vineyard, meant to be a wine that can be drunk every day with almost anything. Think of it as the younger sister of the Proprietor’s Reserve. · Oak char and smoke dominate the fruit aromas and a bit of heat peaks out over time in the glass. Slightly tart red and black berry fruit flavors are linear with barely noticeable tannins and lively acidity. Fairly plush and mouth filling but not exciting. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 285 cases, $35. A blend of 4 clones, aged 18 months in 50% new French oak. · A dusty cherry nose leads off the show. Raspberry, strawberry, and pomegranate flavors star and a hint of gingerbread and herbs add interest. Oak adds appeal and support. Beautiful balance. Reviewed September 10, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 285 cases, $35. · A beautifully balanced Pinot with an attractive dusty cherry nose backed by a little barnyard and complimentary flavors of black cherries, pomegranate, spices, gingerbread and herbs. Oak adds interest and support. Everything is in proportion from oak tannin to acid to fruit intensity. Reviewed March 17, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Diane’s Block Klein Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

153 cases, $40. The Diane’s Block is the second vintage from this 4-acre vineyard in Aptos. · It has its own charm and distinctive character with racy mixed berry and black cherry fruit, a soft texture, ample acidity, and supple tannins. There is a lot of magic in the air in Corralitos. Reviewed April 1, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Wood Tank Fermented Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 26 cases, $44. Aged 22 months in 100% new French oak. · Intensity is the key word here. Flamboyant black raspberry fruit aromas fill the glass. Juicy black berry jam flavors have subtle oak, chocolate, and marzipan overtones. Power to spare in the mouth ending in a lovely raspberry-infused aromatic kiss on the back end. There is notable oak present and a touch of heat peaks out but is not intrusive. Reviewed March 17, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Wood Tank Fermented Limited Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 26 cases, $44. · The nose is loaded with red fruits and exotic Indian spices. A middleweight wine with charming flavors of red cherries and strawberries with a touch of oak and brioche added in for interest. The wine builds in intensity and interest with time in the glass, leaving a memorable aromatic impression on the endless finish. Plenty of swag here. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $55. · Shy nose that opens beautifully with time in the glass revealing black cherries and oak with a minerality in the background. A little darker fruit profile and noticeably fuller than the 2004 vintage, tasting of jam on toast with just the slightest hint of spice. Smooth as a baby’s bottom, perfectly balanced, with a lasting impression on the long finish that leaves a touch of heat in its wake. This one is more California, the 2004 vintage is more DRC. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Proprietor’s Reserve Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $60. Unfined and unfiltered. · Intense aromas of deep, dark fruit with whiffs of savory herbs, cut flowers and oak. Tasty core of cherry and berry melange that is on the verge of fading, taking on some secondary characters of brown spice, mocha and raisin. Riper and lighter in weight than the 06 and 07 bottlings but with a similar prominent acid underpinning. Drink up soon. Good. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Estate Limited Release Burgundian Clones Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 40 cases, $95. This special half-acre block is tended exclusively by Jim. The clone, a rarely propagated French Pinot Noir clone, is not available in the United States. Aged 27 months in 100% new French oak. I have drank both the 2004 and 2005 versions of this wine and found both to be stunning. I do not have specific tasting notes since I enjoyed the wines with special friends at dinners. I do have fond memories of both wines, however, and can only say they rival the best Burgundies I have ever drank. As good as the other Windy Oaks Pinot Noirs are, this bottling is a step above, a tour de force. · Reviewed November 13, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Windy Oaks Special Burgundy Clone Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $95. Unfined and unfiltered. · Shapely bottle with long cork and attractive embossed label. Moderate burnished red rose color in the glass. Fresh aromas of mixed berries, chocolate truffle, spice, flower garden and a hint of oak. Delicious strawberry and black cherry core nicely spiced with a subtle kick of acidity on the amazing finish that seems to persist for a minute. The layers of flavor seem to defy proper description. Very soft and plush on the palate. A very unique wine that is in a class of its own. Reviewed December 14, 2010 ARTICLE »

2004 Windy Oaks Estate One Acre Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

94 cases, $30. · A stunner. This is a Kistler-killer for half the price! Perfect balance with butter, caramel, and exotic fruit notes, and demure acidity. Reviewed April 1, 2007 ARTICLE »

2004 Windy Oaks Estate Diane’s Block Klein Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

153 cases, 2004 and 2005 sold out. This is the second vintage from this 4-acre vineyard in Aptos. · It has its own charm and distinctive character with racy mixed berry and black cherry fruit, a soft texture, ample acidity, and supple tannins. Reviewed September 10, 2007 ARTICLE »

2004 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

175 cases, $45, sold out. The Reserve is the winery’s signature wine. · This one will stand up to any wine produced in California and is everything you could hope for in a Pinot Noir. From classic Pinot aromatics of Bing cherry and spice, through elegant, sweet and vivid fruit with a caressing texture, to a lasting finale, this is one impressive drink. You won’t be able to get enough of this one. Reviewed September 10, 2007 ARTICLE »

2004 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

175 cases, $45. · The Reserve is the winery’s signature wine. This one will stand up to anything produced in California and is everything you could hope for in a Pinot Noir. From classic Pinot aromatics of Bing cherry and spice, through elegant, sweet and vivid fruit with a caressing texture, to a lasting finale, this is one impressive drink. You won’t be able to get enough of this one. Reviewed April 1, 2007 ARTICLE »

2004 Windy Oaks Estate Proprietor’s Reserve Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 175 cases, $45. · This is a “Wow” wine. Wonderful scents of spiced cherries, sandalwood, caramel and grass. The flavor trio of cherries, mocha and cinnamon spice are delicious. The whole package is impeccably balanced and elegant with an endless finish. A pretty and diaphanous wine that is tres Pinot. Reviewed March 15, 2009 ARTICLE »