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 Russian River Valley blend represents the unique characteristics of the appellation that set it apart from other growing regions. The wine is assembled using select lots from Arista’s Westside Road Estate Vineyard as well as selections from the Toboni, Lucky Well, and Mononi Vineyards. No declassified wine or “filler” vineyards are used for this appellation blend. Instead, this wine is viewed as a tete-de-cuveé blend of their single vineyard and estate wines and is an excellent survey of the vintage and appellation each year.

This wine is predominately a blend of Toboni, Lucky Well, Mononi and Arista’s Westside Road Estate Vineyard.

The 2022 growing season in Sonoma County started early due to low rainfall and warm spring temperatures. We faced two frost spells in the Russian River Valley, where frost has become increasingly common. Summer was mild with gradual warming through mid-August, leading to our earliest harvest. This timing was fortunate, as we completed most harvesting before a significant September heatwave that affected many Sonoma and Napa vineyards. The 2022 vintage produced crystalline, ethereal wines with distinct character. These aromatic, gem-like wines reflect the season’s challenges, which ultimately contributed to their depth and beauty.

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

Yeast: Native

Crisp red fruit, high-toned botanicals, and a glowing ruby red appearance drive our 2022 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, which beautifully balances floral aromatics with a bright, fresh, tangy mouthfeel. The warm, dry growing season in 2022 allowed our grapes to reach full maturity before harvest, allowing us to use nearly 25% whole clusters during fermentation – a practice that adds depth and brightness to finished wines. After aging in a modest 20% new French Oak, this wine strikes a perfect balance between complexity and drinkability, with spicy oak nuances subtly framing – but never overwhelming – the wine.