This vineyard is adjacent to Steve Kistler's new project, Occidental's own vineyard (the Kistler brand was sold, but the vineyard was not). It is located at the southernmost tip of the Freestone Occidental region, south of Sonoma, close to the sea and exposed to cool fog and wind, and has fine sandy loam soil. 90% fermented and aged in egg-shaped concrete tanks and 10% in French barrels (500 puncheons). With the aroma of ocean salt and wild flowers wafting through, this wine is refreshing, crisp, and rich in umami.
Technical information
Winemaking: Hand-picked and selected grapes. Gently pressed whole bunches. Fermented and aged 90% in egg-shaped concrete tanks and 10% in French barrels (500 liters). Wild yeast used. Bottled unfiltered.
Production volume: 100 cases
Tasting Comments
The moment you put your nose close to the glass, you're reminded of a cool, moist spring drive along the California coast.
The first thing you notice is hints of ocean tide and wildflowers, followed quickly by notes of pear compote.
When you put it in your mouth, the freshness, saltiness, and umami flavor of the sea lingers for a long time.
The fragrant finish makes you want to savor it forever, like reading your favorite book.
Field Information
Platt Vineyard
The southernmost part of the Freestone Occidental District.
It is close to the sea (about 5 km) and located above the fog line, so cool breezes blow in.
Well-drained Gold Ridge soils rise from an ancient seabed.
This produces wines that are concentrated and rich in minerals.
Pratt Vineyards
It is adjacent to Steve Kistler's own vineyards, his new project, Occidental.
(The vineyard was kept when the Kistler brand was sold.)
At Rivers Marie, Thomas used Pinot Noir from this vineyard to become the first wine outside of Burgundy to receive 100 points from Vinous.
Vintage: 2018
Capacity: 750ml
Type: White wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Primary Varietal: 100% Chardonnay (Old Wente clone)
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Sonoma Coast
Vineyard: Platt Vineyard
Note: Jeb Dunnuck 90P
Winemaker: Philippe Melka
Vinification: 90% fermented and aged in egg-shaped concrete tanks, 10% in French barrels (500 liters), wild yeast
Rating: 90P or above
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 13.8%