Haynes Vineyard Forgeron Pinot Noir Coombsville 2022

If you want to get a feel for what Napa Valley was like in the 70's, take a meandering drive through Coombsville. This understated AVA lies East of the town of Napa, and despite being just ten minutes from the nearest Target, the pace here feels slow, steady, and unchanged. When visiting, allow ample time for tractor crossings, and don't take any turn too fast, as these country roads are well-traveled by neighbors who have been walking the same loop for fifty years.

This mundane drum of country life fuels some of the most historic and revered vineyards in the valley. Likely, the most well-known of this pedigree is the Haynes Vineyard. From 1885 to 2019, the Haynes Family took loving care of this special vineyard. The family purchased it in 1885 from Nathan Coombs, the founder of the city of Napa, for $3,135 in gold coins. The 43-acre property saw many versions of business - cattle grazing, prune orchards, and fruit trees. In 1967, the Haynes family planted their first 20 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir under the guidance of the great  André Tchelistcheff. Today, about 5 acres of these original plantings still stand and are most likely the oldest vines of both varietals in Napa Valley.

In 2019, the Haynes family sold to Gaylon Lawrence, and the vineyard embarked on its third chapter. For the first time in its 140-year history, the Haynes Vineyard has become a brand with estate wines that intend to rival the quality of great Burgundy. Under the leadership of Master Sommelier Carlton McCoy and the winemaking genius of Nico Cueva, a new era of Napa history begins, and we are beyond thrilled to share that ACME is the very first retailer to offer these soon-to-be cult classics!

Due to the cold pocket in which this vineyard sits, ripening for Pinot Noir can linger into October. This lengthy growing season allows for the fruit to develop incredible nuance in flavor and the stems to lignify. For this reason, Nico was able to include close to 80% of the stems in the fermentation, which increased tannins on the palate. Floral, spicy, and aromatic, this has the structure of Burgundy but with sun-kissed fruit for added California flare. The vineyard's signature acidity is masterfully balanced by the smooth tannins and lengthy finish. For serious "Pinot-philes", this is not one to miss!