As the New Year fast approaches us, I wanted to feature one of the most gorgeous properties in Sonoma. Iron Horse has gained an international reputation for producing some of the best sparkling wine in North America. Utilizing entirely all estate fruit, Iron Horse sits in the middle of the Green Valley, 13 miles from the Pacific. There are approximately 160 acres in vine, planted exclusively to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir - with gentle, rolling hills, and a spectacular view from the winery clear across Sonoma County to Mount St. Helena. Having visited the property on several occasions, it is hard to describe the breathtaking views from the winery that span the valley. On the estate vineyard the predominant soil-type is Goldridge, a sandy loam that has excellent drainage. Head winemaker David Munksgard strives for balance in his wines. His new release sparkling wines were pretty impressive.
These were some of the highest rated sparkling wines that I have sampled from California this year. Particularly gripping was the 2012 Iron Horse ‘Russian Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine (WWB, 94) which has incredible weight, intensity and austerity. This is really a massive sparkling wine that would be the perfect way to ring in the new year. Learn more about these awesome wines at http://www.ironhorsevineyards.com Here are the great new wines by Iron Horse.
2012 Iron Horse 'Classic' Brut Sparkling Wine-A blend of 76% Pinot Noir with 24% Chardonnay, this wine weighs in at a scant .5 residual sugar and was disgorged in January 2017. This wine begins with a bright bouquet of brioche, baked apple and nutmeg with lemon zest accents. The mousse is exquisite as this wine has a silky character. The mid-palate weight is lovely as the wine displays green apple, challah bread, green olive and Bartlett pear flavors. This is gorgeous stuff from this estate. Drink 2017-2029- 93
2013 Iron Horse 'Ocean Reserve' Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine-This is a blend of three different blocks of Chardonnay from the Iron Horse Estate vineyard. The wine was disgorged in January 2017. For each bottle sold, the winery will donate $4.00 for ocean health as the winery has partnered with National Geographic. The wine is a stunner, showing off kumquat, Satsuma orange, with freshly baked brioche. The mousse is absolutely lovely as the texture glides through the mid-palate. Flavors of Meyer lemon zest, sourdough bread and Marcona almond accents. The finish is exceedingly long lasting and the salinity shines through. Drink 2017-2029- 93
2012 Iron Horse 'Russian Cuvee' Sparkling Wine- This great Sparkling wine is a compelling blend of 76% Pinot Noir with 24% Chardonnay. The wine was disgorged in January 2017 and checks in at .8 residual sugar. A golden hue, this wine begins with aromatics of brioche, allspice, and Mandarin orange rind. The mouthfeel is gorgeous and deep, as the mid-palate weight is exceptional. Tangerine rind, key lime, Gravenstein apple and brioche connect well with with hazelnut accents. Powerful and massive, this isn't for the weary. Drink 2017-2033- 94