An Overview of the 2022 Vintage

We are thrilled to release the 2022 vintage, one that is sure to stand out in your cellar!

Dan hosting the Blessing of the Grapes at the beginning of the 2022 harvest.

Early Start

The 2022 growing season began with a much needed abundance of rain in the winter months, replenishing groundwater levels and providing a strong start for the vines. An early bud break kicked off the growing season nearly four weeks ahead of usual schedule, which then set the stage for a longer growing period. 

Weather Advisory

Late-season frosts are what growers are always concerned for as it could damage the buds and future crop, and we had a couple of cold spells this vintage.

As the season progressed, the weather remained warm and mild until a (as usual) heat spike arrived around Labor Day. Temperatures soared, exceeding 110˚F for several days, creating stress on the vines but also concentrating flavors in the grapes. This type of intense heat requires quick decisions in the vineyard regarding irrigation and canopy management to protect the grapes and ensure optimal ripeness. 

Harvest Time

Due to the early start and the heat spike, harvest came earlier than usual in 2022—about three weeks ahead of the previous year. The fruit came in quickly, and this earlier harvest helped preserve acidity, a hallmark of Russian River Valley and cool coastal Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, while the concentration of flavors was a direct result of the season’s varied conditions. 

The Wines 

The 2022 Pinot Noirs are known for their vibrant acidity, retained due to the relatively quick ripening period and careful picking decisions. The wines show expressive fruit characteristics, including ripe cherry, cranberry, and raspberry, balanced by earthy and floral notes like lilac and rose petal. The season's weather challenges contributed to a vintage with depth and complexity. Many sites reported smaller berries with thicker skins, resulting in wines with more concentrated flavors and firmer tannins. Despite the challenges, the 2022 vintage is characterized by a balance between ripeness and freshness. The wines show immediate appeal with their fruit-forward nature but also have the structure and acidity to age gracefully over the coming years. 

Overall, the 2022 vintage is one of vibrancy, character, and complexity. It reflects a year where both the land and winemakers' adaptability played a significant role in crafting expressive wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.