Kanzler Vineyards Pinot Noir Debuts
Kanzler Vineyard is the one of the hottest (not literally) Pinot Noir vineyards among Pinot Noir lovers.
Planted by Stephen and Lynda Kanzler in 1996, just west of the town of Sebastopol in the Sonoma Coast
appellation, it has quickly become a magical source for fine Pinot Noir. Pinot Noirs crafted by A.P. Vin,
CL Wines, Kosta Browne, Rhys Vineyards and Roessler, among others, have caught the fancy of the
wine press. The 2004 Kosta Brown Kanzler Vineyard Pinot Noir garnered an outrageous score of 98 in
the Wine Spectator. Years ago, it was Williams Selyem that pushed Rochioli Vineyard to stardom and
Kosta Browne has done that for Kanzler Vineyard.
The Kanzler Vineyard is located on an east-facing slope of a small valley on what was formerly an
apple orchard. The site has Goldridge sandy loam soils, and the vines prosper from the cool, foggy
nights, sunny days, and afternoon maritime breezes. Clones 667, 115 and Pommard are planted on
appropriate rootstock for this location. The Kanzlers are passionate grape farmers who are never far
from the action as they live in a house on the vineyard property.
In 2004, the Kanzlers partnered with winemaker Greg Stach to make their own
wine. Greg Stach is a Fresno State trained winemaker (1992) who has stints at
Landmark Vineyards and Pellegrini Family Vineyards on his resume (photo
right).
2004 Kanzler Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., $35.
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Classy wax closure. This is a light to medium
bodied Pinot which has a caressing texture. The aromatics
feature cherries, cranberries, rhubarb, and a little
smoke. This has more restraint and elegance as compared
to the Kosta Browne bottling. Over time, the oak and alcohol
can peek out on the finish, but with food this Pinot is magical.
I had this wine with grilled, marinated tri-tip and whole grain
Texmati brown and red rice with grilled veggies. This Pinot
really softens and integrates with food and isn’t this what
wine is really for?
This is a label to watch based on the quality of the grapes from this vineyard and the rising talent of
Greg Stach. The current website at www.kanzlervineyards.com is under construction but check back
to sign up for the mailing list. The phone number is 707-824-1726. For retail distribution, check
www.wine-searcher.com,
