- Wines
2021 Gist Ranch Estate Cabernet Franc
Vineyard
The Lexington wines are sourced from the Gist Ranch Estate located in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains. The vineyard was densely planted in the year 2000 at elevations reaching 2300 feet above sea level, 17 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. The heavily fractured, vaqueros sandstone soils and unique mountain micro-climate produce singular, deeply concentrated wines that demonstrate the power and elegance of the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation.
Winemaker Notes
The 2021 vintage was a welcome change from the catastrophe of 2020, which saw devastating fires throughout the region. Harvest began for Pinot Noir in early September, an average historical starting date. Sugar and acidity levels tracked well, and while the crop size was shorter than we would prefer, we were able to harvest perfectly ripened fruit at a reasonable pace. The resulting wines have excellent balance and intensity. In comparison to our most recent vintages, there are some similarities to 2019 in that the wines possess great elegance and site specificity.
Technical Data
Vintage
2021
Varietal
Cabernet Franc
Appellation
Santa Cruz Mountains
Vineyard Designation
Gist Ranch Estate
Acid
6.1
pH
3.55
Alcohol %
14.8
Other Notes
Rich, extracted aromas of stewed berry, dark chocolate and espresso bean converge on the nose of this bottling. Black plum and fig flavors arise on the palate, which is layered in dried herb and potent barrel spices.
— Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast