More about the 2018 SOJOURN ROGERS CREEK SONOMA COAST PINOT NOIR: Sojourn's winemaking philosophy involves a natural, hands-off approach in the cellar, along with methodical farming in the vineyard. These undeviating methods are in place to showcase the unique personality of the grapes and site-specificity, and critics have noticed. Over the years, they've raked in a constant flow of mid 90s scores, and one of my favorites is their 2018 Rodgers Creek Pinot, which has an impressive 95 point rating from Jeb Dunnuck, and at $48, it's a smoking value. Perched on a ridge in the heart of the cool-climate Petaluma Gap AVA, Rodgers Creek Vineyard takes on the full brunt of the maritime winds and thick fog that funnel through from the pacific. The vines are grown in chalky volcanic ash soils, on steep inclines, which contribute to the complex flavors and purity of fruit. The 2018 vintage base comes from two separate blocks of Pommard clone, revered for producing pure dark fruit flavors and powerful floral fragrance. The winemaking team ferments the wine with 20% whole cluster for added structure, freshness, and intriguing aromas. “... Rodgers Creek Vineyard offered lower than average yields in 2018, unlike most of the vineyards in the Sonoma Coast. The resulting wine is concentrated and balanced. Two blocks of Pommard clone form 80% of the final blend, with earthy tones overlaying layers of red fruit flavors. A portion of the grapes were fermented whole cluster, adding aromatic complexity and structural verve.”