Sky Ridge Vineyard

The Our Sky Ridge vineyard is our newest planting in Russian River Valley. It was reclaimed as family property when in 2016 Lee Martinelli Sr. bought the land back from the Young family. It was originally owned by Giuseppe Martinelli and is the location where Lee Sr. fell his first buck at twelve years old. This vineyard is all of 4 acres and rests high on a ridge top on Martinelli Road, where it wakes up in the morning fog and catches the cool afternoon breeze during the hot, summer months.

When we look back at the 2023 growing season there are two words that perfectly describe the vintage – late and big. After an exceptionally wet and cool winter, bud break happened over a month later than average. Our first day of picking was the day after the harvest completed the previous year. Fruit set was excellent and the temps during the summer were moderate to cool, with very few days in the triple digits. What a contrast from 2022! Mild temperatures along with abundantly available water allowed the clusters to develop slowly and evenly.

Expressive aromas of black cherry, black plum, and warming spices greet the nose. The palate is velvety, with flavors of raspberry, dried cherry, and a touch of blood orange, while fresh rhubarb elevates the lingering finish.