As I sipped a selection of wines (received as samples) from Bacigalupi Vineyards, I reminisced upon the stellar conversation I had with the women of Bacigalupi. During that virtual chat, I had the opportunity to delve deeper in the story of the family and understand why they’re crucial to the history of wines in Sonoma County and beyond. For more, please read Talking History, Family, the Future with the Women of Bacigalupi Vineyards by following the link here.
The intriguing story continues. Ashley Herzberg, Winemaker, made it clear during our conversation that she “wants wines to be an indication of what’s in the vineyard.” The five choices I tasted from the family’s own label, begun only ten years ago, were exceptional representations of Russian River Valley terroir.
Ashley Herzberg, Winemaker – Photo Credit: Bacigalupi Vineyards
Bacigalupi Vineyards
There are three different parcels at Bacigalupi Vineyards: Goddard Ranch, Bloom Ranch and Frost Ranch.
The Goddard Ranch is the original property purchased by Charles and Helen Bacigalupi in 1956 and is considered the family’s homestead. Currently Helen Bacigalupi, lovingly called “Grandma Helen,” lives at Goddard Ranch where minerals in the soil, a unique microclimate and diurnal range of temperatures result in wines with bright acidity and plenty of flavor. Of note is that the parcel, planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, includes the tasting block of Chardonnay found in Chateau Montelena’s award winning and now legendary wine that won the 1976 Paris Tasting, an event that “helped put the California wine industry on the map.” 40% of Chardonnay in Chateau Montelena’s wine was from this specific block on the Goddard Ranch.
Photo Credit: Bacigalupi Vineyards
Purchased in 1973, the Bloom Ranch was originally planted as a walnut orchard in the early 1960s. Only Chardonnay is cultivated here and the property’s location close to the Russian River offers optimal conditions. As a result, this variety thrives.
The family purchased the Frost Ranch from the Frost family in 1990. Harvey Frost, born in 1883, purchased the ranch in 1927 when it was planted with prune trees and a small nursery. Owned by Frost family members through the years, the decision was made to sell the property to Bacigalupi Vineyards. Now, the ranch is of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. “What makes the Frost Ranch so special and unique from our other vineyards is its location. It’s a stone’s throw away from the Russian River, which provides the vineyard with a blanket of fog every morning. The fog slowly burns off to reveal the warm afternoon sun,” shared Katey Bacigalupi.
Although the following video was produced in 2009, I’d be remiss if I didn’t share Helen Bacigalupi’s fascinating story of the historic property and journey of winemaking.
Private Label Wines from Bacigalupi Vineyards
From the Paris Tasting Block at Goddard Ranch is 2018 Chardonnay Renouveau Russian River Valley ($82). By all accounts, 2018 was a beautiful vintage and this wine proves it. Intense and pure, aromas of yellow flowers, nectarines, juicy white peaches, brioche and hint of herbs were exceptional. On the palate, I found stone fruit, lemon curd, marzipan and dried citrus. Bursting with minerality, vibrant acidity and oak notes (from 19 months of aging in French oak), this balanced wine could age for up to ten years.
2018 Chardonnay Russian River Valley ($62) is of grapes cultivated at the Goddard Ranch. Another memorable Chardonnay, aromas of grilled pineapple, caramel bites, ripe peaches, juicy golden apple and roasted almonds were an enticing entry. Boasting a round mouthfeel, rich flavors of honey, banana cream pie, warm buttered scones, dried apricot, nuts and melon were lifted with bright acidity. The Chardonnay was aged for 11 months in French oak barrels.
Exuding an Old-World vibe, the 2018 Pinot Noir Frost Ranch Russian River Valley ($76) was outstanding. Rich and elegant, aromas of violets, lavender, crushed red berries, dark plums, orange peel, spice and earth wafted from the glass. Bold flavors of herbs, wet moss, juicy dark raspberries and plum compote were framed with moderate acidity and soft tannins. Aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, this was a magnificent wine.
From three distinct blocks in the Goddard Ranch and Frost Ranch, 2018 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley ($69), this sophisticated wine was notable. I discovered orange peel, ripe raspberries and juicy red fruits on the nose followed by lavender candies, bright cherries, red currant and crushed raspberries on the palate. Incredibly balanced with moderate acidity and well-integrated tannins, this Pinot Noir could be aged for at least five years. But it’s beautiful right now.
Ahhh, Zinfandel! 2018 Zinfandel Russian River Valley ($52) is of grapes grown on the Frost Ranch. Aged in French barrels for 21 months, I was mesmerized by an entry of black cherries, mint chocolate, and crushed violets on the nose. On a foundation of bright acidity and soft tannic structure, intense flavors of spice, black cherries, boysenberries and touch of earth were absolutely delicious.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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