RieslingSonoma Coast Estate Riesling
Vineyard Profile
Those who have enjoyed our organically and biodynamically grown wines over the last decade may recall the lineup once included a Riesling hailing from a coastal Sonoma site. Historically, Riesling and Pinot Noir have shown to be quite compatible neighbors, sharing an affinity for cooler microclimates and well-drained sandy soils. Thus, as Pinot Noir thrives in the cool clime and balanced Goldridge soil of the Estate, Riesling was a natural addition to the unique tapestry of the vineyard. Rarely grown so close to the California coast, this distinctive varietal is proudly nurtured from vine to bottle by the team at Radio-Coteau. Harvested from a single acre, and with previous vintages aged exclusively in stainless steel, the 2022 vintage marks our first Riesling aged in wood, specifically a neutral 600-liter Stockinger thick stave demi-muid. The neutral oak vessel added complexity while preserving freshness, resulting in an enticing, aromatic white poised for longevity in bottle.
Tasting Notes
Lively notes of lime juice and fresh gooseberry mix with ripe quince and a whisper of lanolin to offer a tantalizing aromatic introduction to the 2022 Estate Riesling. A kaleidoscope of flavors unfolds similarly, with playful notes of spring meadow, chamomile tea, and a delicate umami character rounding out the complex palate. The mouthfeel is focused and refreshing, with a clean, pithy lift. Punctuating the lingering finish is a sophisticated dash of petrol hinting at what’s to come.
Cellar Notes
- Grower:
Radio-Coteau - Appellation:
Sonoma Coast - Geographic Location:
Occidental - Varietal:
Riesling - Selection:
Geisenheim 198 - Vineyard Age:
Planted in 2016 - Soil Type:
Goldridge - Harvest Date:
September 3rd - Unfined
& Unfiltered - Growing Season
2022
Wine Reviews
“The 2022 Riesling Estate is fabulous. Rich, creamy and expansive, it is especially fine for the vintage. I admire its extroverted personality. I suppose there might be a bit less true varietal character this year, but that is a finer point given how much the wine delivers. White flowers, mint, lemon oil, mint, spice and ginger build effortlessly over time.”
–Antonio Galloni