From the Winemaker
This Sonoma Coast vineyard was developed specically 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
Stunning aromas of blueberry, blackberry, lavender and ripe strawberry.
Mouth
Full body with super fine tannins that are compressed and extremely long.
Ratings
94 points, Wine Advocate
"From a large vineyard (Gap's Crown is roughly 130 acres), the 2013 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard comes from a smaller 37-acre parcel owned by Kosta Browne, which lies at an elevation of 1,000 feet above sea level. Harvest all towards the end of September and aged 16 months in 51% new French oak, it has a slightly darker slant in its wild strawberry, black raspberry, spice and sappy flower stem-like aromas and flavors. Elegant, seamless and downright pretty, it grows on you with time in the glass and is a gorgeous Pinot Noir to drink over the coming decade."
92 points, Wine Spectator
"Firm and tight, with acidity and tannins imparting structure and definition. The core of raspberry, anise, cedar and red licorice are presented in a restrained manner, gaining depth and persistence on the finish. Drink now through 2022." -James Laube