' Gorgeous New Pinot Noir from Rita's Crown

 



NEW RELEASE

2015 RITA'S CROWN VINEYARD PINOT NOIR
Planted in 2007, Rita’s Crown is located at an elevation of 600 to 950 feet on a dramatic southwest-facing slope at the “crown” of the Sta. Rita Hills, making it one of the highest planted vineyards in the AVA. This elegantly structured, beautifully concentrated wine leads with aromas of black cherry, blackberry and plum complemented by hints of herbes de Provence and a subtle background of French oak. On the palate, rich berry and red cherry flavors are enhanced by cinnamon spice and mineral notes culminating in a graceful, opulent finish. The wine’s authentic fruit expression, richness and balanced tannins assure graceful development and excellent cellar potential. Only 336 cases made.  More info 

HARVEST 2018
Follow our Harvest Log Here

Last year at this time, we were undergoing a heat spell, and had harvested nearly 40% of our Pinot Noir. What a different scene this year where temperatures have remained cool all summer long and harvest has yet to begin. Signs from the vineyards, however, indicate the party will be starting soon!

In addition to cool day-time temperatures, Sta. Rita Hills night-time temperatures have been consistently chilly, in the low to mid-50's, ideal for retaining the natural acidity in the grapes. The exceptionally long hang time the grapes are enjoying on the vine also is contributing to the potential for excellent quality this year. Berries are tiny and yields are estimated to be below average, similar to last year. The canopies look great, not stressed at all, and ready to go the distance to ripen the fruit.

With a little bit of heat forecasted for this weekend, Ken suspects our block of Clone 943 Pinot Noir at Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, as well as our Pinot Noir at Rita's Crown Vineyard will be ready to pick around the middle of next week. Yields in both those vineyards are estimated at a slight one and a half tons per acre. Ken and our assistant winemaker, Ben were grateful for the extra time after bottling in August to really prepare the cellar for harvest. We'll keep you posted as the action unfolds!

SPECIAL EVENTS AT KEN BROWN WINES

Saturday, October 13, 2018  |  11:30 am to 3:30 pm   HARVEST OPEN HOUSE AT KEN BROWN WINERY, 140 Industrial Way, Buellton, CA
It's Celebration of Harvest weekend in Santa Barbara County! We invite you to come check out the harvest activity and join us for a special Harvest Open House at our production winery. Enjoy barrel tasting and tours with Ken, two new release wines as well as other current releases and delicious appetizers prepared by Louise's Kitchen Table. Tickets are $25 per person/$15 for Wine Club members and can be reserved by contacting John at john@kenbrownwines.com or calling 805-688-9400. Limit of 2 discounted tickets per wine club membership. Cancellations will not be accepted less than 72 hours prior to the event.
Saturday, November 3, 2018   AUTUMN WINEMAKER DINNER AT KEN BROWN WINERY, 140 Industrial Way, Buellton, CA
We are thrilled to partner with K'Syrah Catering for a culinary adventure you won't want to miss! Served in our production winery with French oak barrels as the backdrop, this five-course meal features seasonal sensations such as Winter Squash Soup Shooters with Truffle Oil and Pine Nuts, and Syrah-Braised Short Ribs with Roasted Heirloom Carrots. View the complete menu with wine pairings here. Tickets are $155 per person/$135 for Wine Club members. For reservations, please contact John at john@kenbrownwines.com or call 805-688-9400. Limit of 2 discounted tickets per wine club membership. Cancellations will not be accepted less than 72 hours prior to the event.

OTHER EVENTS
Saturday, September 9, 2018  |  12:00 to 3:00 pm  TASTE OF THE TOWN, Riviera Park, Santa Barbara
Saturday, October 6, 2018  |  4:00 to 9:00 pm  CASA AT THE CLUB, Santa Maria Country Club, Santa Maria, CA
Saturday, November 10, 2018 | 3:00 to 6:00 pm VINO DE SUEÑOS RELEASE CELEBRATION, WINE SALE & AUCTION, Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, Buellton, CA

Get all the details at our Winery Calendar of Events

KEN BROWN TASTING ROOM

Open Thursday through Monday 11:00 am to 4:30 pm
(Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
157 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, CA  93427
Tasting Room Phone 805.688.9400

www.kenbrownwines.com

 

 

KEN BROWN WINES ∙ P.O. BOX 1965 ∙ BUELLTON, CA 93427 ∙ TEL 805.688.8561 ∙ EMAIL info@kenbrownwines.com
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