By Fog and Wind
2023 Wohler Vineyard Russian River Valley

The Vineyards
Replanted in 2006, Wohler Vineyard in Forestville sits in the heart of the famed Russian River Valley, within sight of the Russian River and the historic Wohler Bridge. The combination of climate and Goldridge Series soils provides an environment well-suited for growing ultra-premium Pinot Noir. We source grapes from three distinct blocks within the vineyard. Our blocks of clones 667 and 828 sit at the highest elevation and are the best-draining blocks on the property. The Wadenswil 2A clone is planted in cooler, lower spots within the vineyard where the soils contain more clay. Each block offers unique characteristics and an array of blending options with each vintage.

Winemaker Notes
In 2023, plentiful winter rains took Sonoma out of a drought. A cool summer allowed the vines to ripen evenly, and the weather stayed moderate during the growing season, with periodic light rains. Harvesting started three weeks later than normal, and Pinot Noir yields were above average. The cooler weather resulted in fresh natural acidity and firmer tannins, both good for cellaring. Grape phenolics ripened at lower sugar levels, and the resulting 2023 Pinot Noirs are more "Burgundian" in nature. 2023's cooler weather resulted in bright flavors and balanced structure for all the Wohler components. We harvested in multiple passes, fermenting each block separately. Clones 667 and 828 provided a core of rich fruit, while the Wadenswil 2A component added hints of earth.

Fermentation and Bottling Details
Grapes: 100% de-stemmed Pinot Noir
Winemaking: Open-top fermentation, native yeast
Aging: 50% new French oak
Bottling: Bottled unfined and unfiltered, June 2024
Release Date: Fall 2025

Finished Wine Details
Alcohol: 14.20%
pH: 3.61
TA: 5.9 g/L
AVA: Russian River Valley
[Information provided by Matador Vino]

Wine: FOG AND WIND Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Wohler Vineyard 2023
Score/Rating: 93
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2033
Review Date: 10/2025
Reviewed By: Jeremy Young
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Fog and Wind Wohler Vineyard Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley reveals a seductive bouquet of wild blackberry, pomegranate, and violet interwoven with accents of toasted clove, cypress, and wet stone. On the palate, lush layers of black cherry and fig unfold alongside hints of espresso and allspice, framed by polished tannins that lend both structure and refinement. A touch of savory minerality and forest air adds nuance beneath the fruit, creating a graceful interplay between richness and restraint. The wine finishes with impressive length, echoing with traces of dried sage and cocoa dust.