Stubbs Vineyard is located in a narrow valley that opens to the south of the vineyard. The vineyard is divided by a seasonal creek that helps drain the area of cold air during the frost season. This is very important for this site as the vineyard is usually very early to bud out and late to ripen, as it is one of the vineyard sites closest to the very cold Tomales Bay. This same drainage acts as channel for cold air and fog to work its way back up to the vineyard, making it one of the coldest sites for non-sparkling Pinot Noir in Marin. The soils are a mix of alluvial deposits and decomposed sandstone, with variable drainage depending upon location in regards to the creek.
The long growing season combined with cool climate leads to mixture of dark fruit, spice and floral elements with flavor ripeness occurring at fairly low brix and high acidity. The wines are more delicate on the whole then warmer climate sites, but have an elegance that is hard to find in most of California.
Aromas of raspberry and boysenberry mingle with subtle nuances of clove.
Palate:
This wine is light and playful with silky tannins and fresh red fruit flavors, dried sage, and grilled radicchio on the palate. Not overpowering in the least, a delicate finish of dried cherries and cranberries makes this wine the perfect complement to food.
