By Fog and Wind
2022 Pinot Noir Riddle Vineyard Sonoma Coast

Vineyard Details
Riddle Vineyard is located in the west of Sonoma Coast, near the town of Occidental. Situated high upon a ridge top with a gentle south-facing slope, the vineyard overlooks many of the iconic vineyards of the region. Mornings tend to be foggy, yet the fog burns off early, allowing the vines to be drenched in warm sun the rest of the day. Planted in 2008 at a high density with 3.5' x 6' spacing on exceptional Goldridge soils, the vine roots stretch deep into the soil, seeking nutrients and water. This provides deep, complex flavors. Riddle is planted to a mixture of Pinot Noir clones 115, Pommard, and a distinctive Mt. Eden clone, which was taken as original bud wood from a prominent vineyard planted along California's Central Coast.

Vintage Details
A warm 2022 summer brought one of the earliest harvests on record in the Sonoma Coast, with a September heat wave influencing some picking decisions. Cooler pockets of the Sonoma Coast fared well through the heat, and the resulting wines offer depth and finesse. Yields were minuscule, with many vineyards breaking records on the low side for cluster weights. The resulting wines have concentrated flavors with tension and length. Riddle Vineyard's proximity to the Pacific Ocean allowed for the vines to handle the September heat and achieve optimal ripeness. In 2022, the Mt Eden clone provided a rich core of bramble-berry flavors and silky tannins. Clone 115 added structure and bright red fruit aromas, while the Pommard block added earthy notes and another layer of texture and complexity.

Wine and Production Details
AVA: Sonoma Coast
Grapes: 100% de-stemmed Pinot Noir
Fermentation: Open-top fermentation, native yeast
Aging: 50% new French oak
Alcohol: 14.40%
pH: 3.63
TA: 5.8 g/L
Bottling: Bottled unfined and unfiltered, August 2023
Release Date: Fall 2024
[Information provided by Matador Vino]

Wine: FOG and WIND Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Riddle Vineyard 2022
Score/Rating: 96
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2033
Review Date: 10/2025
Reviewed By: Jeremy Young
Tasting Notes: The 2022 Fog and Wind Riddle Vineyard Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast greets the senses with an aromatic tapestry of black cherry, mulberry, and rose petal accented by hints of cinnamon, cedar shavings, and a whisper of blood orange peel. On the palate, layers of marionberry, red plum, and pomegranate emerge gracefully, supported by fine-grained tannins and a pulse of coastal freshness that carries the wine’s energy forward. Notes of nutmeg and roasted hazelnut weave into the background, bringing warmth and dimension to its lively core. The texture is both plush and lifted, a seamless blend of richness and finesse that defines this coastal site. The finish unfolds slowly, leaving traces of dried herbs and mineral-infused fruit that linger elegantly. Highly recommended.