County Line Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2020

The Land: The vineyards of County Line are deeply embedded within the cool, misty reaches of California’s Sonoma Coast, an area where the omnipresent Pacific fog and sea breezes dictate the slow, deliberate pace of grape maturation. Organically cultivated, these vineyards benefit from a rich mosaic of coastal sediment and rocky soils, enhancing stress on the vines that, in turn, intensify the grapes' aromatic and flavor profiles. This challenging yet rewarding environment is key to developing the nuanced character seen in the wines from this region.

The Wine: Aged in neutral French oak and bottled unfiltered, this medium-bodied wine offers a tapestry of raspberry compote and strawberry rhubarb pie, interlaced with threads of wild sage, dried rose petals and forest floor. The palate is greeted with rounded tannins that magnify the bright berry flavors and warm spice notes, achieving an elegant balance between fruit and earth. This wine is ideally served slightly chilled or at cellar temperature, making it a perfect complement to an herb-crusted pork loin or a savory root vegetable tarte Tatin.

The People: At the helm of County Line is Eric Sussman, a winegrower and proprietor dedicated to a philosophy of minimal intervention and sustainable viticulture. Since 2003, under the companion label to Radio-Coteau, Sussman and his close-knit team of farmers, cellar hands, customer liaisons, and creatives have been steadfast in their commitment to organic and holistic farming. This commitment not only nurtures the land and vines but also promotes biodiversity, as reflected in the County Line label’s artwork featuring animals from their farm. Each element of the winemaking process, from the vine to the bottle, is infused with a dedication to integrity and environmental harmony, crafting wines that truly embody the spirit and essence of the Sonoma Coast.