The 2018 vintage on the Sonoma Coast is largely being considered the standout vintage of the decade.

While the growing season saw nearly perfect conditions for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, winemakers and sommeliers are now taking notice of the impressive quality backed by this stellar vintage.

Full-flavored wines are complemented by vibrant acidity which will integrate over time and create the ultimate example of classic age-worthy, coastal Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

One of the more remarkable lineups of 2018’s that I’ve tasted recently has come from one of our own Mayacama Vintner Members – Black Kite.

Winemaker Jeff Gaffner, who joined Black Kite in 2005, focuses on prime single-vineyard sites to create the ultimate expression of Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from proven vineyards in California’s coastal region.

“Universally regarded as a stellar year, 2018 was the North Coast’s mildest growing season in almost 40 years...The cool spring gave us near perfect fruit set while moderate summer temperatures – without any significant heat spikes – allowed for slow, even ripening that promoted excellent flavor development while retaining natural acidity. The resulting 2018 wines are stunning, offering wonderful concentration, complexity, finesse, and flavors reflecting their unique vineyard sites.”- Jeff Gaffner, Winemaker

Today’s offering provides you with a lineup of three of Black Kite’s top bottlings that stand out as accessible representations of the vintage as well as cellar-worthy gems that will shine even brighter in the years to come.

I am requesting a 6-bottle minimum order, but with the quality of these wines, trust me when I say, you are going to want to stock up on much more than six!

As always, please feel free to let me know if you have any questions and thank you for your support.

Cheers!

Carey Vanderborg - Wine Director

2018 Black Kite Chardonnay, Jasper Freestone Vineyard, Sonoma Coast: $80

2018 Black Kite Pinot Noir, Gap’s Crown Vineyard, Sonoma Coast: $70

2018 Black Kite Pinot Noir, “Angel Hawk,” Sonoma Coast: $85

Click here for more information about the wines.

6-bottle minimum order