The Philosophy
Wren Hop Winery was founded by advertising executives, father and son, James and Jim McDonough. Their passion for wine and their flair for the creative have drawn attention from the wine world and high praise from wine critiques Robert Parker and the Wine Spectator. The McDonoughs have assembled a talented wine team and consistently deliver fabulous wines that truly represent their terroir and their whimsical labels tell stories of the Wren. Their new and current releases are fabulous and being offered for your enjoyment.
The Wines
2014 Pinot Noir, “War & Peace”, Russian River Valley
Pueblo Tribes considered the wren "birds of war." Even a mere glimpse of a wren would encourage bravery in the meekest of warriors (we've seen two glasses of Wren Hop have the same affect.) The wren was alternately known to be observant and instill a calm reserve and sense of peace. Perhaps Tolstoy was a closet birdwatcher when he penned his epic novel. This wine embodies a little of both. It explodes out of the glass with combat ready black raspberry, cola, clove and dried herb flavors then settles into more peaceful Shangri-la like juicy strawberry notes. Gamba burgundy barrels lead the way with toasted oak influences here. We say keep calm and carry a big corkscrew.
2014 Pinot Noir, ‘Hustle & Flow’, Russian River Valley
Allegedly, after swiping the king's crown, the wren was captured and imprisoned in a mousehole by a wide-eyed, slightly irritated barn owl. Not to be outwitted, the wren hustled the owl by singing it to sleep and flowing past his spindly legs undetected. Talk about snoozing on the job. From that point, owls would never again sleep during the evening. Not even thru Madame Butterfly. Anyway, we seem to hustle our vineyards into flowing greatness. The result is evident - potpourri aromatics, a massive red cherry mid-palate, tobacco leaf, blood orange, caramelized brown sugar and a zippy toasted oak finish. Get your schmuck face ready, you're about to be hustled.
2013 Pinot Noir, "Druid's Metaphor", Sonoma Coast
The Irish Druids declared the wren sacred. Their observation of the wren's small size and elusive nature was a metaphor for the elusive divinity we attempt to find in life itself. A bit of a stretch, but these people spent most of their day in the pub. This Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast AVA produced low yielding, mountain fruit clusters from a steep rocky block residing at a 700ft elevation. Petaluma Gap fog replaced by Sonoma County sunshine. Slow flavor development from proper diurnal temperatures create rich flavors and haunting aromas. Mixed berry jam, complex layers of bergamot, sweet tobacco and earth lead to an ever present fall baking spice finish. The extra bottle age on the wine had created silky textures and round tannins. It's divine..um, literally.
2010 Pinot Noir, “Fire Messenger”
A classic library release. This wine has evolved into a beautiful meeting of balanced acids and fruit forward roundness. Heritage clones make up this California Pinot Noir. Bright acidity provides the wine with great verve and energy. Classic Sonoma Coast flavors of strawberry and spice leap from the glass. The aromatics on this wine are incredible. With decanting it shows enticing notes of fresh rose pedals. Grab the last few bottles of this release. There is only one case available. Wine may be allocated.
The Offer
Mix and Match 12 bottles for a 10% discount
2014 Pinot Noir, “War & Peace”, Russian River Valley
$75
2014 Pinot Noir, ‘Hustle & Flow’, Russian River Valley
$75
2013 Pinot Noir, "Druid's Metaphor", Sonoma Coast
$72
2010 Pinot Noir, “Fire Messenger”, Sonoma Coast
$128
Ordering
For all questions and orders, contact Wine Director, Jeff McCarthy. Let us know if you would like your wine shipped or placed in your wine locker. Sales tax and appropriate shipping will be added to all orders. Allow 2-3 weeks for account processing and shipping. During extreme weather, wine orders may be held until it is safe to ship.
Jeff McCarthy, Wine Director
[email protected]
707.569.2906 |
