The Bush-Crispo Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard in the Russian River Valley AVA in Sonoma County. Second generation Audrey Bush, Jr. and her husband Chris Crispo currently are in charge of their 13.5 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines. The Ram’s Gate team sources Pinot Noir grapes from predominantly Pommard clone vines that are 10 years old and 20 years old. The grapes, some destemmed, some whole cluster, are fermented in combinations of large oak barrels called foudres and stainless steel tanks to add a complexity of flavors. It is crystal clear in its ruby color and its cherry, raspberry aromas lingering with wisps of vanilla and woody herbs. The wine is silky smooth in the mouth with seamless integration of the ripe cherry, berry fruit, dried herbs and ripe tannins. It has the fruit to handle the intense flavors of a tomato-based sauce and the acidity to complement grilled salmon and the structure to age gracefully.
Ram’s Gate, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Pinot Noir 2018
By Rebecca Murphy