Nestled in redwoods and bathed by cool Pacific Ocean fog, the Green Valley American Viticultural Area yields Pinot Noir grapes with an ideal balance of ripeness and acidity. The wine comes from several 8- to 20-acre vineyards budded to clones that contribute flavor diversity, bright acidity, rich color and supple tannin structure to the wine. These include Dijon clones (667, 777 and 115), the Pommard clone, and Beringer Clone 15. The cool climate, long sun exposure and ideal soils also contribute to the layers of flavor. Gold Ridge soil predominates on these ridge-top sites; this very fine, sandy clay loam has a balanced mineral content and naturally stresses the vines.

The 2006 growing season gave us abundant winter and spring rains that lasted through April. Bloom, when the grapes flower and set fruit, occurred slightly later than normal. A warmer July gave way to a cool August and early fall, giving the grapes long hangtime on the vines. We harvested these Pinot Noir grapes, with ripe, balanced flavors and mature tannins, from September 23 to October 25. The light crop, with small, concentrated berries, contributed to the intensity of the wine.

We pay tribute to the land with our name. A series of orogenic episodes near the Pacific Ocean formed the mountains and streams that created Green Valley's ideal growing conditions. Its well-drained soils, coupled with warm days and cool nights chilled by maritime fog, give us seductively satisfying grapes, resulting in a wine that entices the senses.

Sonoma County's picturesque Green Valley is a small slice of land in the southwestern part of the Russian River Valley appellation. On its undulating hills, modest vineyards, farmhouses and weathered barns nestle in a lush forest of redwoods.

The quest to create a Green Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) within the Russian River AVA was led by Audrey and Barry Sterling of Iron Horse Vineyards, based on the belief that the much foggier, cooler Green Valley has a climate distinct from that of the rest of the Russian River region. Since its approval in 1983, dedicated growers and passionate winemakers have proven this area to be the ideal place in which to craft classic Burgundian wines.