Info:
Since we know you’re wondering: Yes, there was a man named Ernest. He was an entrepreneur, a risk-taker and a role model for his grandson, Todd Gottula, who founded our winery with his wife, Erin Brooks, back in 2012. Today, the “Ernest” in our name stands for more than one man. It’s about integrity in the fruit we use and the people we know. It’s about restraint, about how ego drives nothing we do.
We have built Ernest Vineyards on a number of key concepts. Beyond our commitment to integrity, restraint, and beauty, we are most passionately committed to sourcing our varietals from carefully selected vineyards around Sonoma County. Picking and choosing our vineyard sites allows us to hold out for the very best grapes we can find. We then use those grapes to make the wine we want to make.
The Vineyard: Ernest's cool-climate, maritime-influenced Pinot Noir program now encompasses 5 vineyards. This Appellation blend is a captivating example of the style of pinot noir that can be cultivated on the far reaches of the West Sonoma Coast. Retaining natural acidity and exhibiting a restrained fruit expression, this Pinot Noir is an authentic example of what is possible in cooler climates of California. This blend is sourced and crafted 100% from Ernest's core program and does not include any purchased or bulk wine for volume.
- Contributing Vineyards: Michael Valentine Vinyard in Freestone, Cleary Ranch in Freestone, aand Grand Vent Vinyard in Petaluma Gap.
- Aging: 25% New French Oak, 11 Months
- Cases Produced: 360
- Alcohol: 12.5%
A zesty style, with flinty notes to the lusciously spiced cherry, currant and macerated red plum flavors that are loaded with crunchy acidity. Ends with hints of paprika on the finish. Drink now through 2024. 360 cases made. (Sep 30, 2021). - Wine Spectator, 91 Points.
