Dec 30, 2022
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Kendric Vineyards
| Owner(s) | Stewart Johnson |
| Web site | www.kendricvineyards.com |
| Link to this site |
Stewart Johnson farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard on leased land just south of the Petaluma Gap, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard he planted in 2002 and reaped the first harvest in 2004. Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works. Clones are 37, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months. Stewart crafts about 600 cases of Pinot Noir and Syrah (from Shenandoah Valley).
Stewart could be the brightest and most-educated winemaker around. He graduated from UC Berkeley, obtained a doctorate in political science from Yale, and graduated with a law degree from Hastings. While interning at the Environmental Protection Agency, he was drawn to be in the field instead of an office practicing law. With his wife, who is a Marin native, he discovered the pastoral beauty of Marin County and was drawn to grow grapes there.
The Pinot Noir is quite good and sensibly priced. It is sold on the website.
Articles About Kendric Vineyards
2018 California Value Priced Pinot Noir All-Americans (11.36 12/29/2018)
Along the Pinot Trail: Pinot Days Southern California 2010 (8.9 1/22/2010)
California Pinot Noir from A to T (9.12 10/1/2012)
Marin County Pinot Noir Celebration (6.32 7/16/2007)
Memoirs of a Wine Trip Well-Taken (6.5 11/26/2006)
On the Pinot Event Trail (9.3 2/22/2012)
Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (11.29 8/24/2018)
Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (10.24 1/17/2016)
Small Sips of More California Pinot (7.17 5/7/2009)
Small Sips of Pinot (6.43 10/20/2007)
Small Sips of Pinot (8.14 4/23/2010)
Reviewed Wines
2016 Kendric Vineyards Petaluma Gap Marin County Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.60,
RS <20 g/L, 300 cases, $38. This is essentially an “Estate” bottling but for the technicality that the
vineyard and winery (crafted by winemaker Stewart Johnson at Treasure Island, San Francisco)
are in separate AVAs. 8.5-acre vineyard planted in 2002 to clones 37 (Mt Eden), 115 and
Pommard. Harvest Brix 23.0º. Yields were 1.8 tons per acre. 100% whole cluster into open-top
fermenters, indigenous yeast fermentation. One half of lot pressed at dryness after 14 days and
the other half of the lot went 38 days on the skins. Press and free-run juice combined. Aged 19
months on the lees in French oak barrels, 30% new. Egg white fined, unfiltered.
·
Light garnet color in the glass.
The nose opens over time in the glass to reveal aromas of cherry, spice and timber. Light in color, yet
possessing excellent weight on the mid palate, with juicy flavors of red cherry and cranberry and a touch of
spice. Energetic acidity provides freshness and lift and integrated tannins allow for easy drinking. A delicately
styled wine that can be enjoyed slightly chilled.
Score: 91.
Reviewed August 24, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.61, 600 cases, $38. Release
spring 2016. Harvest Brix 23.5º. 2/3 whole cluster, native and cultured yeast, 40-day extended maceration,
aged in French oak barrels (23% new) and one Hungarian oak puncheon for 23 months without racking.
Unfiltered.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas of cherry, strawberry and spice are
slow to emerge upon opening. A bit closed on the palate, but showing some spirited black cherry and black
raspberry fruit flavors, backed by somewhat aggressive tannins. When tasted the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had undergone a remarkable transformation, offering vibrant
aromas, more submerged tannins, and a lasting finish of uncommon generosity. The wine should benefit from
more time before the planned release in 3-4 months, but will benefit from even further aging in bottle.
Score: 90.
Reviewed January 17, 2016
ARTICLE »
2012 Kendric Vineyards Reserve Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., ph 3.70, TA 0.61, 40 cases, $50.
Release spring 2016. The Reserve comes from one edge of the Kendric Johnson Vineyard with the thinnest soil which produces
lower yields, more ripeness and concentration. Harvest Brix 24º. 2/3 whole cluster, native and cultured yeast
fermentation, 35-day extended maceration, aged 26 months in 2 French oak barrels, 1 new. Unfiltered.
·
Light
reddish purple color in the glass. Slowly emerging aromas of cherry glaze, spice and sandalwood lead to a
abundance of black cherry, baking spice (particularly cinnamon) and cardamom spice flavors. The silky
tannins offer a seductive mouthfeel, and the juicy grip on the nutty cherry finish is quite refreshing. I really like
the spicy character of this wine. Much better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 90.
Reviewed January 17, 2016
ARTICLE »
2010 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.73, 580 cases, $36. Released
fall 2013. 65% whole cluster fermentation, 10% saignée, native and proprietary yeast, 35-day extended post
fermentation maceration for two-thirds, aged 23 months in French (and 1 Hungarian) oak barrels. Filtered.
·
Light reddish purple color in the glass. This wine (or at least this bottle) has taken on an aged character with
fruit on the nose showing a slightly cooked and raisiny aroma. There is still plenty of cherry and raspberry fruit
in a mid weight style with hints of oak-driven tobacco and vanilla. The wine finishes with both a sweet and tart
cherry going away.
Score: 87.
Reviewed January 17, 2016
ARTICLE »
2009 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.40, TA
0.53, 580 cases, $36. Released fall 2012. 6th vintage. Clones 37, 115, 667,
777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Harvested at about 2.0 tons per acre at about
24º Brix. 60% whole cluster fermentation, 10% saignee, no cold soak, both
indigenous and proprietary yeast, 30-day extended maceration, aged in 40%
new French oak barrels for 27 months, gently fined and filtered.
·
Light reddish
color in the glass. Very seductive aromas of ripe cherries, red currants,
sandalwood and walnuts, picking up interest and intensity over time in the glass.
Relatively light in weight but flavorful, offering notes of brandied cherries, spice,
and a hint of vanillin oak, with some of the cherry fragrance returning to haunt
the finish. Very soft tannins make for easy drink ability. Very good.
Reviewed October 2, 2012
ARTICLE »
2008 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH
3.41, TA 0.59, 365 cases, $35. Yield 1.75 tons per acre.
·
Mildly intense
dark red color in the glass. Subdued aromas of black cherries, vanillin
and rose petals. Attention getting presence on the mid palate of dark
red berries, blueberries, herbs and sassafras. A polished, engaging
wine with supple tannins and bright acidity on the finish. Easy to drink
now, but impeccable balance portends many years of good drinking ahead.
Very good.
Reviewed November 29, 2011
ARTICLE »
2007 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 368
cases, $34. Fourth vintage.
·
Moderately in color. Lovely perfume of
earth-dusted cherries, lavender and pear. Delicious cherry fruit with
a sidecar of sandalwood, oak and root beer. Medium-bodied with
suede tannins and understated acidity. This wine has pinotosity.
Less acidity than the 2006 vintage version with more cajones and the
best yet from this small producer. Definitely worth a look. Very good.
Reviewed April 23, 2010
ARTICLE »
2007 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 368 cases, $34.
·
Moderate red color
in the glass. Scents of cherries, strawberries, spice and wine cave emerge slowly over time in the
glass. Light to medium weight core of cherries with hints of sandalwood and black olive. Smooth in
the mouth with an uplifting, mildly oak-tinged finish. Pleasant but not extraordinary. Good (+).
Reviewed November 29, 2011
ARTICLE »
2006 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $33.
Third vintage from the 8.5-acre Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased to winemaker Stewart Johnson who crafts the wine at Starry
Night Winery in Novato. The clones are 115, 828, 667, 777, Pommard
and a mystery clone. Kendric Vineyards was established in 2001 and
produces 600 cases of Pinot Noir and Syrah.
·
An intriguing nose that
constantly changes in the glass. Many aromas surface including red
berries and cherries, root beer, wet leaves and soy. Bright cherry and cranberry
fruit is offered in an elegant style with crisp acidity. Some root beer and spice
flavors show up. Juicy and fresh, this is a fun drink that I admire for its finesse
and its uniqueness. Check out Marin County - the wines will surprise you.
Reviewed May 7, 2009
ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
Stewart also makes a fine Syrah from the
Shenandoah Valley region of California.
·
The 2005 vintage was just bottled but oh my! Lovely aromatics of sandalwood
and crushed cherries and terrific fruit which grows in your mouth.
Reviewed July 16, 2007
ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
Stewart Johnson
farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda
family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002.
Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115,
667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons
per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with
Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months.
·
The 2005 vintage was just bottled but oh my! Lovely aromatics of sandalwood
and crushed cherries and terrific fruit which grows in your mouth.
Reviewed July 16, 2007
ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 160
cases, $30. Winegrower Stewart Johnson (pictured) farms an 8,5 acre
Pinot Noir vineyard in northern Marin County and a Syrah vineyard in
the Sierra Foothills. 2004 was the first harvest
for the Pinot Noir vineyard, leased
from the Corda family. Seven clones are
planted. Total production of both wines is
600 cases. Some Pinot Noir fruit is sold to
Miller Wine Works in Napa.
·
A very likeable
aromatic profile with spice, notably nutmeg, toast and red berries.
Light and satiny in texture, the woodsy and herbal accented cherry fruit is
shy but pleasing. Kendric Vineyards wines may be ordered on the website.
Reviewed October 20, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.64% alc., sold out, Stewart Johnson
farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda
family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002.
Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115,
667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons
per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with
Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months.
·
The 2004 is a nice offering featuring cherry driven aromas and flavors enhanced with tea, floral and
woodsy notes. Lively acidity.
Reviewed July 16, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.64% alc.,Stewart Johnson
farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda
family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002.
Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115,
667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons
per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with
Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months.
·
The 2004 is a nice offering featuring cherry driven aromas and flavors enhanced with tea, floral and
woodsy notes. Lively acidity.
Reviewed July 16, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Wine Co Kendric Vineyard Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc. The Kendric Vineyard is farmed by Stewart Johnson
·
The wine was bottled a few months ago and is still closed, but the potential is evident.
Reviewed November 26, 2006
ARTICLE »
2016 Kendric Vineyards Petaluma Gap Marin County Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.60, RS <20 g/L, 300 cases, $38. This is essentially an “Estate” bottling but for the technicality that the vineyard and winery (crafted by winemaker Stewart Johnson at Treasure Island, San Francisco) are in separate AVAs. 8.5-acre vineyard planted in 2002 to clones 37 (Mt Eden), 115 and Pommard. Harvest Brix 23.0º. Yields were 1.8 tons per acre. 100% whole cluster into open-top fermenters, indigenous yeast fermentation. One half of lot pressed at dryness after 14 days and the other half of the lot went 38 days on the skins. Press and free-run juice combined. Aged 19 months on the lees in French oak barrels, 30% new. Egg white fined, unfiltered. · Light garnet color in the glass. The nose opens over time in the glass to reveal aromas of cherry, spice and timber. Light in color, yet possessing excellent weight on the mid palate, with juicy flavors of red cherry and cranberry and a touch of spice. Energetic acidity provides freshness and lift and integrated tannins allow for easy drinking. A delicately styled wine that can be enjoyed slightly chilled. Score: 91. Reviewed August 24, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.61, 600 cases, $38. Release spring 2016. Harvest Brix 23.5º. 2/3 whole cluster, native and cultured yeast, 40-day extended maceration, aged in French oak barrels (23% new) and one Hungarian oak puncheon for 23 months without racking. Unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas of cherry, strawberry and spice are slow to emerge upon opening. A bit closed on the palate, but showing some spirited black cherry and black raspberry fruit flavors, backed by somewhat aggressive tannins. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had undergone a remarkable transformation, offering vibrant aromas, more submerged tannins, and a lasting finish of uncommon generosity. The wine should benefit from more time before the planned release in 3-4 months, but will benefit from even further aging in bottle. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »
2012 Kendric Vineyards Reserve Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., ph 3.70, TA 0.61, 40 cases, $50. Release spring 2016. The Reserve comes from one edge of the Kendric Johnson Vineyard with the thinnest soil which produces lower yields, more ripeness and concentration. Harvest Brix 24º. 2/3 whole cluster, native and cultured yeast fermentation, 35-day extended maceration, aged 26 months in 2 French oak barrels, 1 new. Unfiltered. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. Slowly emerging aromas of cherry glaze, spice and sandalwood lead to a abundance of black cherry, baking spice (particularly cinnamon) and cardamom spice flavors. The silky tannins offer a seductive mouthfeel, and the juicy grip on the nutty cherry finish is quite refreshing. I really like the spicy character of this wine. Much better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »
2010 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.73, 580 cases, $36. Released fall 2013. 65% whole cluster fermentation, 10% saignée, native and proprietary yeast, 35-day extended post fermentation maceration for two-thirds, aged 23 months in French (and 1 Hungarian) oak barrels. Filtered. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. This wine (or at least this bottle) has taken on an aged character with fruit on the nose showing a slightly cooked and raisiny aroma. There is still plenty of cherry and raspberry fruit in a mid weight style with hints of oak-driven tobacco and vanilla. The wine finishes with both a sweet and tart cherry going away. Score: 87. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »
2009 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.40, TA 0.53, 580 cases, $36. Released fall 2012. 6th vintage. Clones 37, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Harvested at about 2.0 tons per acre at about 24º Brix. 60% whole cluster fermentation, 10% saignee, no cold soak, both indigenous and proprietary yeast, 30-day extended maceration, aged in 40% new French oak barrels for 27 months, gently fined and filtered. · Light reddish color in the glass. Very seductive aromas of ripe cherries, red currants, sandalwood and walnuts, picking up interest and intensity over time in the glass. Relatively light in weight but flavorful, offering notes of brandied cherries, spice, and a hint of vanillin oak, with some of the cherry fragrance returning to haunt the finish. Very soft tannins make for easy drink ability. Very good. Reviewed October 2, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.59, 365 cases, $35. Yield 1.75 tons per acre. · Mildly intense dark red color in the glass. Subdued aromas of black cherries, vanillin and rose petals. Attention getting presence on the mid palate of dark red berries, blueberries, herbs and sassafras. A polished, engaging wine with supple tannins and bright acidity on the finish. Easy to drink now, but impeccable balance portends many years of good drinking ahead. Very good. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »
2007 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 368 cases, $34. Fourth vintage. · Moderately in color. Lovely perfume of earth-dusted cherries, lavender and pear. Delicious cherry fruit with a sidecar of sandalwood, oak and root beer. Medium-bodied with suede tannins and understated acidity. This wine has pinotosity. Less acidity than the 2006 vintage version with more cajones and the best yet from this small producer. Definitely worth a look. Very good. Reviewed April 23, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 368 cases, $34. · Moderate red color in the glass. Scents of cherries, strawberries, spice and wine cave emerge slowly over time in the glass. Light to medium weight core of cherries with hints of sandalwood and black olive. Smooth in the mouth with an uplifting, mildly oak-tinged finish. Pleasant but not extraordinary. Good (+). Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »
2006 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $33. Third vintage from the 8.5-acre Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased to winemaker Stewart Johnson who crafts the wine at Starry Night Winery in Novato. The clones are 115, 828, 667, 777, Pommard and a mystery clone. Kendric Vineyards was established in 2001 and produces 600 cases of Pinot Noir and Syrah. · An intriguing nose that constantly changes in the glass. Many aromas surface including red berries and cherries, root beer, wet leaves and soy. Bright cherry and cranberry fruit is offered in an elegant style with crisp acidity. Some root beer and spice flavors show up. Juicy and fresh, this is a fun drink that I admire for its finesse and its uniqueness. Check out Marin County - the wines will surprise you. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
Stewart also makes a fine Syrah from the Shenandoah Valley region of California. · The 2005 vintage was just bottled but oh my! Lovely aromatics of sandalwood and crushed cherries and terrific fruit which grows in your mouth. Reviewed July 16, 2007 ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
Stewart Johnson farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002. Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months. · The 2005 vintage was just bottled but oh my! Lovely aromatics of sandalwood and crushed cherries and terrific fruit which grows in your mouth. Reviewed July 16, 2007 ARTICLE »
2005 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., 160 cases, $30. Winegrower Stewart Johnson (pictured) farms an 8,5 acre Pinot Noir vineyard in northern Marin County and a Syrah vineyard in the Sierra Foothills. 2004 was the first harvest for the Pinot Noir vineyard, leased from the Corda family. Seven clones are planted. Total production of both wines is 600 cases. Some Pinot Noir fruit is sold to Miller Wine Works in Napa. · A very likeable aromatic profile with spice, notably nutmeg, toast and red berries. Light and satiny in texture, the woodsy and herbal accented cherry fruit is shy but pleasing. Kendric Vineyards wines may be ordered on the website. Reviewed October 20, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.64% alc., sold out, Stewart Johnson farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002. Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months. · The 2004 is a nice offering featuring cherry driven aromas and flavors enhanced with tea, floral and woodsy notes. Lively acidity. Reviewed July 16, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Vineyards Marin County Pinot Noir
13.64% alc.,Stewart Johnson farms the Kendric Johnson Vineyard leased on land owned by the Corda family, and makes the wine from this 8.5 acre vineyard planted in 2002. Some grapes are sold to Miller Wine Works (below). Clones are 37, 115, 667, 777, 828, Pommard and Martini. Yields are ridiculously low (0.5 tons per acre in 2004). The wines are de-stemmed, cold soaked, inoculated with Assmanshausen yeast, and barreled into 33% new French oak for 18 months. · The 2004 is a nice offering featuring cherry driven aromas and flavors enhanced with tea, floral and woodsy notes. Lively acidity. Reviewed July 16, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Kendric Wine Co Kendric Vineyard Marin County Pinot Noir
13.9% alc. The Kendric Vineyard is farmed by Stewart Johnson · The wine was bottled a few months ago and is still closed, but the potential is evident. Reviewed November 26, 2006 ARTICLE »