From the Winemaker
This Sonoma Coast vineyard was developed specifically with Pinot Noir in mind. Bold sweeping elevation changes and clonal selections define this exemplary property which is farmed to exacting standards. For us, Gap’s Crown is all about a professional singular focus on Pinot Noir and we love it.
Steep hillsides and a variety of clones help add diversity to this vineyard whose aspects were carefully planted to encourage even sunlight exposure during the final stages of fruit ripening. The Sonoma Coast influence is key at Gap’s Crown – located in the Petaluma Gap where late season fog becomes trapped and takes a little longer to burn off. The fruit is allowed to hang a little longer creating more balanced and evolved flavors.
We’ve been working with the vineyard since 2006 and enjoy a long term lease on 37 acres. This allows us to manage how the vineyard is farmed and exercise our influence as an estate producer. Gap’s has become the backbone of our Sonoma Coast program and we believe the viticultural standards at work here are second to none.
Nose
Purple fruit with cherry and raspberry character. Hints of violets on the nose.
Mouth
Full body that is very dense with defined layers. Agile and fresh with hints of salt.
Ratings
96 points, James Suckling
"Lots of purple fruit with cherry and raspberry character and hints of violets on the nose. Full body that is very dense with defined layers. Yet, remains agile and fresh. Hints of salt. A little reserved now. Needs two or three years of bottle age. Better in 2021."
93 points, Wine Spectator
"Everything is moving in the right direction, from the snappy wild berry and plum flavors to the crushed rock and savory underbrush notes. Ends with fine-grained tannins that bode well for the future. Drink now through 2024."