Vibrant ruby violet in color, the 2015 Oppenlander Vineyard Pinot Noir embodies the classic, brooding dark fruit and earth of Mendocino Pinots, but with the startling concentration and intensity found only in such historic vineyard sites as this.  On the nose, it leads with loamy mushroom, jammy berry and soft cedarwood – all notes that harken to the own-rooted vines in heavy clay soil.  The palate follow suit and does not disappoint:  primary flavors of pomegranate and bing cherry quickly recede, setting the show for sweet aged leather, dark chocolate, violets and dusty minerality.  Soft, yet chewy tannins balance the cool-climate acidity and bring the wine into balance.  Complex and layered, this bottling promises to reward those who can wait 5-8 years in order for the wine to mature and fully realize the intensity and concentration of the site.

A vineyard site since the 1860s, the fifth generation of the Shandel family carries on the tradition at this unique Mendocino vineyard site.  Located just outside of Comptche, it is almost 10 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean and receives plenty of summer sunshine.  Afternoon breezes and heavy morning fog keep average temperatures cool and extend the growing season well into to autumn.   This site is very unique in that it is not planted on rootstock; instead, the Dijon clones are own-rooted in a pocket of heavy clay loam that is unique to the Comptche area.