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.
Jeb Dunnuck
96 Points
2023
"Coming from one of the coolest Russian River Valley sites in the range, the 2023 Pinot Noir Kanzler Vineyard pours a deeper ruby red hue and reveals aromas of sweet tangerine, cherry cordial, caramel spice, nutmeg, and sweet baking spices. Medium to full-bodied, it is juicy and ripe without heaviness, carrying a generous hug of fruit and impressive density across the palate. Dark stones and refreshing tension bring everything together on the finish. This is one of the more complete wines in the lineup. Drink over the coming 15-20 years. Drink 2026-2047."
— Audrey Frick, 2026
Vinous
93 Points
2023
"Bursting with sweet red cherry fruit, tobacco, incense, dried herbs, mint and orange peel. Medium in body and wonderfully precise, the Kanzler is an especially refined Russian River Pinot Noir. A blast of red-toned fruit punctuates the super-expressive finish."
— Antonio Galloni, 2026
