Savoy Spotlight
Savoy Vineyard Spotlight
Along with our Estate vineyard and farm, we are fortunate to work with a select group of dedicated growers in western Sonoma County and Anderson Valley. Among them is the Savoy Vineyard, a storied Anderson Valley site that has been part of the Radio-Coteau portfolio since our very first vintage back in 2002. Originally established by farmer Richard Savoy and farmed organically, the Savoy vineyard still carries the unique distinction of being our only Anderson Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay source. In celebration of this deep-rooted relationship, the Fall Release features both varietals from this special site, as well as an especially memorable selection from our library.
Planted on alluvial terrace deposits at the base of the hills northwest of Philo, Savoy’s gravelly soils and valley location provide a compelling counterpoint to our Sonoma Coast focus, while keeping consistent with our signature cool-climate character. For more than two decades, we have had the privilege of working with Rich and the stewards who have followed him, sourcing fruit from the same blocks year after year. Farmed for over 15 years by Paul Ardzrooni (pictured with Eric below) and guided through the cellar by our own thoughtful decisions, the Savoy vineyard has consistently yielded wines with remarkable depth and ageability.
2024 SAVOY CHARDONNAY
The 2024 Savoy Anderson Valley Chardonnay opens with a generous, rounded nose of lemon curd and ripe pear, accompanied by a hint of toasted brioche. On the palate, bright layers of Florentine citron, Buddha’s hand zest, and lemon marmalade mingle alongside delicate oak spice and a tinge of vanilla, lending richness while ensuring the fruit remains the focus. The texture is silky and expansive, with crisp acidity providing a lively counterpoint that effortlessly draws across the palate. Lingering and refined, the 2024 Savoy Chardonnay leaves a lasting impression that recedes ever so tantalizingly gradually.
2023 SAVOY PINOT NOIR
The 2023 Savoy offers a graceful expression of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, balancing vibrant fruit with an earthy and herbal complexity. Crushed raspberry, Satsuma plum, and Morello cherry compote take center stage, set against sous bois undertones and a gentle thread of warm baking spices. Smooth tannins provide structured refinement, while hints of pennyroyal and brewed black tea add savory depth. Bright acidity imparts freshness and lift, carrying the fruit through a lengthy, energetic finish. Deliciously inviting at present, the 2023 Savoy Pinot Noir is also a promising candidate for the cellar, as time in bottle will only serve to deepen its broad appeal.
2018 SAVOY CHARDONNAY
The 2018 Savoy Anderson Valley Chardonnay has entered a beautiful stage of bottle age, with aromas of lemon meringue, honeysuckle, and roasted hazelnuts. These notes carry through to the palate, where a supple and generous profile is energized by a gentle current of citrus acidity. Deeply textured and persistent, the 2018 Savoy Chardonnay continues to evolve in the glass, revealing delectable new layers with each sip. Fans of Savoy Chardonnay will not want to miss this special library selection.
We appreciate the enduring relationship we have shared with the stewards of the Savoy vineyard and for the many vintages this acclaimed site has given us. It is a privilege to continue this journey and to honor the vineyard’s unique character through our wines.
Follow along with us on INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK as we document our coastal winegrowing journey through the vineyard, farm, and cellar.
