Showcasing its youth through not only the green tinges of its straw-colored core, but also in the hesitancy to unveil its true character until it is swirled in the glass, this Chardonnay gains volume and depth in the form honeysuckle, white peach, and toasted hazelnut notes. A supple, fleshy mid-palate with effortless flavors of apple skin, lemon oil, and hints of sea air is balanced by a ridge of fresh acidity and a weighted, complex finish.

This exclusive small lot was harvested at night on September 7th and carefully transferred to the winery as the sun began to rise. The fruit was hand sorted and only the most pristine clusters reserved before being gently pressed in a small bladder press. The free-run juice was meticulously separated by taste, then settled overnight in stainless steel tanks before being transferred to barrels for native and malolactic fermentation. This wine was aged in 60% new French oak over a period of 15 months, then bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Pinot Noir is a notoriously fickle variety and one must be ready to accept the challenges that come with farming this grape. It is not a decision to be taken lightly. Belly of the Whale is crafted from Sun Chase Vineyard fruit, located in the southern reaches of the Sonoma Coast appellation, the cool, high elevation slopes that act as a gateway to the rest of Sonoma County’s wine country. For this wine, I use 777 clone Pinot, which is cold-soaked for ten days before being fermented on the skins for 21 days. Once complete, I age Belly of the Whale for 10 months in 50% new French oak barrels.

Here we cross the threshold where we pass from the world we know into a realm rife with danger. The world grows dark. Inky black raspberry, damp earth, and dried and decaying flowers depict the profile of these grapes born of older Pinot Noir vines. Unfined and unfiltered, this is a wine capable of slumbering in your cellar for 10-15 years. The Belly of the Whale is the Sonoma Coast as you’ve never seen it before. There’s no going back.

At the end of your quest, the Reward awaits. This is a new wine, created from cuttings I carried over from France. After nearly a decade of nurturing these vines, we finally see the fruits of our labor bear our own reward. Small bunches of jewel-like Syrah yield intense wine with exquisite finesse.

The final step in the journey awaits, where the most challenging trials are recognized we reap the bounty of our efforts. The Reward is as opulent as the most prized of treasures bestowed upon any hero. This Santa Lucia Highlands Syrah comes from our Family Ranch Vineyard and tastes of ripe cherry, bunches of fresh wildflowers, and seasoned with a hint of pepper. We recommend aging your Reward for up to 10 years.