Hellenthal 'Old Sheep Block' Pinot Noir

High up in the mountainous Fort-Ross Seaview appellation of the West Sonoma Coast there is little resemblance to the other areas from which we make wine. Hellenthal is situated on the northern flanks of this area at 1,300 feet elevation. Coastal fog winds its way up the Gualala River bringing the influence of the Pacific right up to the feet of the vineyard. This is the oldest own-rooted Pinot Noir on the Sonoma Coast – planted in 1980 in partnership with David Hirsch, Gard Hellenthal took a leap of faith and it paid off in spades. Small berries the size of a pea give depth and concentration while retaining natural acidity. Unique and unlike any other site we work with. Monopole.

2021 Tasting Note - John Raytek
The textbook definition of West Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Sitting 82 feet lower than its neighbor Elliott, these fertile clay-rich soils yield a wine that is always a touch more refined and elegant. A 60% whole cluster fermentation gives a subtle sense of herbaceous complexity to the pure red fruits. Truly a Grand Cru site in Northern California.

- Importer, Andrew Guard