WINERY: The core principle of the winemaking philosophy at Arista is to capture and express the true character and potential of each vineyard. They work with a very carefully chosen handful of grand-cru level Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards, and are uncompromising in their efforts to maximize the full potential of the wines crafted from these special sites.

WINE: The Ferrington Vineyard is one of California’s most acclaimed Pinot Noir Vineyards. Though 25 acres of the vineyard are planted to multiple clones of Pinot Noir, Arista have selected a block in the vineyard that was planted to the Pommard clone because of its proven legacy in this cold climate appellation. This vineyard was originally planted in the late 1960s although some of the 25 acres of Pinot Noir vines were replanted in 1998 and some more recently.

The Ferrington Vineyard, one of California’s most acclaimed Pinot Noir vineyards, sells to eight wineries and is tucked away just off Highway 128 in Booneville, a small town in the heart of the Anderson Valley. Though 25 acres of the vineyard are planted to multiple clones of Pinot Noir, we have selected a block in the vineyard that was planted to the Pommard clone because of its proven legacy in this cold climate appellation. Pommard is one of the oldest Pinot Noir clones found in California and is favored by many winemakers for its ability to produce outstanding wines without the help of other blending clones. It is respected for its reliable color, intense fruit, and fragrant spice components. The vineyard has a gentle south-facing slope, and has decomposed sandstone and clay soils with three to four feet of topsoil. This vineyard was originally planted in the late 1960s although some of the 25 acres of Pinot Noir vines were planted in 1998 and some more recently.

The 2021 vintage was marked by ideal weather conditions, resulting in exceptional fruit from our vineyard partners throughout Northern California and from our estate. The winter was relatively dry in California, leading to an early bud break and small yields. Beautiful warm weather during the summer and the absence of extreme heat spikes in the latter half of the season allowed for excellent fruit maturation. As the season progressed, the theme of “early” continued, leading to a prompt harvest in advance of fall rains. The wines from 2021 represent a new high-water mark for wine quality at Arista. They’re true reflections of a wonderful season at Arista and across California.

11 months in French oak barrels. 20-30% whole cluster used during fermentation. Unfined, unfiltered.

Yeast: Native

A hint of earthiness blows off to reveal layers of tangy red cherry, cinnamon candy, pomegranate, cranberry, and roasted chestnut. In true Anderson Valley fashion, elegance and vibrancy define the feel of this wine, with snappy, just-picked red fruit and a subtle cola note carrying the long, smooth finish.