|
|
 |
Savoy Vineyards
This is my first release from this famed vineyard site, located off Hwy 128 northwest of Philo. Savoy Vineyard is one of the most recognizable names in the Anderson Valley, if not in Pinot Noir from California. Savoy consists of several blocks planted in 1991 to a variety of Pinot Noir clones, all farmed primarily using organic methods. The vineyard lies at the base of the hills and comprises the last knolls as well as the gently sloping terraces below them which lead eventually to the Navarro River which flows through part of the Anderson Valley. The vineyard is protected on two sides, one by the aforementioned hills and on the Southeast by a little rise which leads into Philo.
The result is that the vineyard, although situated in the cooler end of the Anderson Valley, is warmer than most of its neighbors.
Savoy is farmed by noted Anderson Valley viticulturalist Paul Ardzrooni. It was first planted in 1991, and is farmed by mostly organic methods including the use of fish emulsion, compost tea, and various cover crops. For Chronicle, we sourced a mix of clones in 2009 – Martini 15 from Block 13, Pommard inn Block 5, and 777 from terraced Block 17.
Savoy is widely respected as one of the great American Pinot Noir sites. It typically shows darker fruit, substantial tannins complemented by bright natural acidity, providing for good structure and aging ability. The wines are assertive young, but soften and integrate beautifully over time.
|
