Moonshine Ranch

Back during prohibition the owners of Moonshine Ranch used to run ‘shine on this ranch in the existing barn. The owner used to sneak out in the middle of the night, while his wife slept to tend to the still. The wife got suspicious and thought it was another woman he was going to see, so she hired a private detective to follow him. When the detective discovered he was making moonshine, he had the man arrested and thrown in jail. The barn still stands on the property today, but houses tractors now instead.

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.

Deep and enticing aromas of blueberry, red currant, and vanilla cream rise from the glass. The palate is rich and textural, with flavors of sweet boysenberry pie, black tea, and subtle baking spice. The Moonshine Pinot Noir finishes with notable weight, lifted by a graceful edge of blood orange zest that adds intrigue and complexity.