Arista Winery
Pinot Noir Kanzler Vineyard Russian River Valley
Kanzler Vineyard is a newer addition to the Arista portfolio, but its potential has long been evident. With 28-year-old vines, prized Goldridge soils, and expert organic farming by Russian River Valley veteran Eric Neil, the site delivers on its promise. Located in the cooler, southern end of the appellation near Sebastopol, the vineyard produces especially vibrant and expressive Pinot Noir from its light, sandy soils.
Planted in 1996, Kanzler Vineyard is one of the first sites on Sonoma’s western edge, just eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. This 14-acre Russian River Valley vineyard highlights the potential of coastal California Pinot Noir. With well-draining Goldridge soils and cool ocean fog, the Dijon and Pommard clones ripen slowly, producing wines of remarkable complexity and finesse.
- Region
- California: Russian River Valley
- Appellation
- Russian River Valley
- Varietal Composition
- Pinot Noir
- Aging
- 11 months in French oak barrels.
- Alcohol
- 13.4%
In the glass, the wine is strikingly perfumed—red currant, pomegranate, and wild strawberry rise from the glass, accented by fresh sage, rose petal, and sandalwood. The
palate is layered and lifted, with precise flavors of blood orange, raspberry, and crushed stone that glide across a finely textured frame. The finish is long, detailed, and almost airy, showing the clarity and finesse that are becoming hallmarks of this site.
James Suckling
98 Points
2023
"Aromas and flavors of intense, concentrated red and blue fruit, ironlike minerality, lavender, lupine and thyme blossoms. Rich and full-bodied with fine, juicy tannins. Drink or hold."
— Courtney Humiston, 2026
Jeb Dunnuck
96+ Points
2023
"Coming from Stoetz Ridge on the western edge of the appellation, the 2023 Pinot Noir UV - Lucky Well Vineyard pours a deeper ruby red hue while remaining transparent in the glass. Swan and Calera selections reveal aromas of ripe cherry, violets, wild herbs, subtle umami notes, and sauvage complexity. Medium-bodied, it has more richness and depth than expected, with impressive concentration, remarkable intensity, and terrific persistence. Small berries and naturally suppressed yields bring additional focus and structure to this outstanding wine. Drink over the coming 15-20 years. Drink 2027-2047."
— Audrey Frick, 2026
