Shibumi Knoll Buena Tierra Vineyard Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2019

Picture this fairytale setting: a country cottage on top of a gentle grassy knoll which opens up to a vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon and sweeping views of both the Vaca and Mayacamas Mountains. This is Shibumi Knoll. 

When Don and Joann Ross moved to the Napa Valley in 2003, their plan was to simplify. They wanted a home and a life that slowed down the moments and enriched the things they cared about most - their relationships with their family, friends, and the land. This idyllic setting was exactly what they were looking for, and the .75-acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vines that came with the 3-acre property was an enticing new project for the couple. Come to find out that not only was the vineyard planted on the distinct rocky soils of Mill Creek's alluvial fan, but that with their purchase they also inherited David Abreu's world-class vineyard management team. This was a special piece of land. 

When it came time to name their family label, Don and Joann quickly arrived at the name 'Shibumi Knoll'. Shibumi, is a Japanese word describing a physical and emotional state which most nearly translates to "the pursuit of perfection though simplicity" or "Effortless Perfection". This spoke to both the way they sought to live life as well as the way they hoped to make wine - a perfect fit. All of the pieces finally fell into place when Don and Joann were able to bring Thomas Rivers Brown on board as their winemaker. Truly one of the greatest winemakers in the Napa Valley and beyond (Pulido-Walker, Riverain, Swagger, I could go on...), Shibumi Knoll was set for success.

And the wines certainly deliver! Those who know have been loyal advocates of this small yet mighty label. It remains a local 'secret', found only on the elite lists of restaurants like The French Laundry. With production as small as 500 cases a vintage, it's not hard to imagine how a project of this echelon might stay undiscovered. Their first vintage of Cabernet was 2003, the same year they moved onto their new property. Shortly after, Don discovered Buena Tierra Vineyard, a small gem tucked alongside the Russian River in Sonoma County. He was struck by the humble yet world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes being farmed there and leapt at the chance to make wine from the 35-year-old vines. Shibumi Knoll made its first vintage of Chardonnay in 2004, and Pinot Noir followed in 2012 at the urge of Thomas Brown who was eager to work with the whole Buena Tierra Vineyard. Their newly released Chardonnay has a basket of bright aromas of of apricot and peach. The palate opens with a rich acidity that melts away and gives into a creamy finish - like lemon meringue for the holidays!