2019 Chalkstone Sonoma Coast, California Pinot Noir

From the wild, wind-swept northern coast to the gently rolling hills of the southern dairy land, this American Viticultural Area spans the length of Sonoma County.

The Sonoma Coast AVA is shaped somewhat like a lobster, tilted at 45 degrees, and headed northwest. The “head” and the “tail” of this lobster overlap the Russian River Valley and Carneros appellations, respectively. It’s the “body” and the “claw” that make the “meat” of the Sonoma Coast AVA. Direct, daily influence from the Pacific Ocean defines the vast appellation.

In the northern reach, vineyards are planted high on ridges just a few miles inland. Many sit above the fog that moves in to blanket lower elevations in the afternoon. It’s an ideal place for growing Burgundian-style, world-class Pinot Noir — like the 2019 vintage from Chalkstone. With bright acidity and lush fruit, it’s a delectable cool-climate wine.