Winemaking

I have different winemaking approaches based on both the variety and the especially the terroir, the vines complete environment.

CM RANCH WINES

White wines
Roussanne, Vermentino and Sauvignon Blanc Musque are picked based on flavor and acidity levels, usually in several passes during October. The different varieties are whole cluster pressed together if they are picked together. Fermentation and aging takes place in older neutral French oak barrels. The new wine is aged on its lees for 6 to 8 months to balance the texture before racking in preparation for bottling in August before the next harvest. I try to manipulate the wine only enough to achieve stability, not to dictate style or character.

Red wines
Red varieties are picked based on physiological ripeness as judged by skin and seed ripeness. This usually occurs during late October to late November. Once again varieties destined for blending are fermented together if picked together. Fermentation takes place in 1.5 ton open top fermenters. Aging occurs in French oak barrels. The wines are bottled with out filtration 11 to 14 months after harvest depending on the year.  I want to bottle early enough to capture fruit character while having manageable tannins. The reds from this vineyard will always have a full tannic structure capable of aging well.  My goal is to also have them be accessible at a younger age (3 years) with out losing the basic character of this terroir.

CEDAR LANE VINEYARD WINES

White wines
 Sauvignon Blanc Musque is picked usually in September in 2 passes. One is early to emphasize citrus and herbal character and the later picking is to bring out peach and melon aromas and a fuller body. Vermentino is harvested a month after the SB based on falling acid levels. Winemaking is similar to the CM Ranch whites but all fermentation is done in stainless steel, both tanks and barrels.

Red wines
Pinot Noir harvest starts in late September or early October. Wines are handled like the other reds but with a more gentle hand as befits this delicate variety. Bottling occurs the August following harvest.

Syrah from Cedar Lane is picked in  early to mid November based on the same criteria as the other red varieties. Winemaking is similar to the CM Ranch fruit but with less concern about excess tannins since this fruit is inherently smoother.