A Storied Past - Williams Selyem

Spring 2016 Release
A Storied Past
Can you recall when your passion for wine was first
ignited? Perhaps it happened while sharing a bottle on a
first date, or with a good friend to celebrate a milestone
birthday. Whatever the answer, the question likely
conjured a special memory. Wine has the power to leave a
lasting impression, both literally and figuratively! One
shared bottle may even alter the landscape of your life in
some way...
For example, in 1987 Burt and Ed’s lives changed forever
when the Williams Selyem Rochioli Vineyard Pinot Noir,
Bacigalupi Family
the first Rochioli Vineyard designate, won the Sweepstakes
Prize (top red wine) at the California State Fair. It was voted the best of the 2,136 wines entered by 416 wineries.
Here is a bit of history about one of our treasured growers and neighbors. The Judgement of Paris, as it’s now known,
startled the French establishment in 1976 when the top two wines picked from a blind tasting were wines made in
California. Many folks may not be aware of this but 85% of the grapes that went into the now famous 1973 Chateau
Montelena Chardonnay came from Sonoma County. Of that 85%, a significant amount came from the Bacigalupi
Vineyard, located just three miles north of our Estate winery.
“We call it the Paris Tasting Block,” says Helen Bacigalupi, of more than 90 acres of Russian River grapes in Sonoma
County. “We still have the original 4 acres of Chardonnay that Mike Grgich, the Winemaker, selected to go into the 1973
Chateau Montelena Chardonnay.”
As we say here at Williams Selyem, MAKE THE BEST WINE FROM
THE BEST GRAPES FROM THE BEST GROWERS and we look
forward to many more years of our partnership with Helen and her
son John.
Reading this, some may wonder whether a 40+ year old wine would still
be good today.
We receive questions about how long to cellar our wines almost daily. The
answer depends on one’s personal philosophy about wine and the reasons
for saving or opening it. Some people are collectors who store their wines
until the Winemaker recommended open date. Others, it seems, can
barely handle the temptation of waiting the recommended 6-8 weeks after
shipment to pop the cork—as owner John Dyson says, “It is sometimes a
test of one’s moral fiber, still we pass no judgment!”
Another subset of our member community collects certain vintages to commemorate special events, such as a 50th
anniversary, a 21st birthday, graduation from college or the birth of a grandchild. We always love to hear these stories and
are thrilled to be part of such extraordinary memories—they inspire us.
Continued on next page
7227 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448 T 707.433.6425 F 707.431.4862
www.williamsselyem.com
[email protected]
Continued from page 1
Not too long ago, List Members Larry & Michele Lynch were kind enough to share a wonderful story.
With their permission, we thought you’d also enjoy hearing about how Ed and Burt made a lasting impression many years ago.
Dear Williams Selyem,
This Thanksgiving we opened a magnum of 1988 Williams Selyem Zinfandel, to enjoy with
our family. The magnum had this handwritten note on the label: “Nicole, enjoy this with
your parents at some special occasion.” Signed: Ed and Burt
On a Friday evening in 1989, my wife and I enjoyed dinner at John Ash & Company. At that
time, Sonoma County was still pretty sleepy. The waiter enthusiastically sang the praises
of various locally made wines, in particular the Pinot Noirs, many of which we were
unfamiliar with. This was how we were introduced to Williams Selyem magic. As we
raved about the wine, the waiter chortled, “Why don’t you visit the winery? It’s just
across the street, in that little shed.”
The next morning was one of those sparkling-crisp-fall days and our first stop was a
stroll over to the winery, with our 18 month old daughter, Nicole. Ed was there seemingly
by himself, and greeted us warmly. We explained our Williams Selyem discovery the night
before and asked him a myriad of questions. He was clearly proud of the work, but
modestly spoke about himself and Burt, giving most of the credit to the vineyards and
fruit. He shared some of the wines and we were duly impressed. Each one seemed to be
better than the last. We worried, and Ed laughed, as our daughter cruised around the lower
shelves inspecting countless corks and other fascinating items. We purchased a case of
wine to be shipped home and went on our way, having thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
The following week we wrote a note to Ed, thanking him for the wonderful visit. Nicole
was born in 1988 and we were collecting some large formats to hold for her 21st birthday.
Bordeaux was a fine year, but we wondered if any of the WILLIAMS SELYEM wines
might be suitable for a 20 year or more hold. About 10 days later, two magnums of the
1988 Zinfandel arrived at our home inscribed as mentioned above. We called to thank them
and identify the charges. They indicated it was their pleasure and there was no charge.
Nicole is now 27 and our grandson Jacob is 3. We still have the second magnum yet to
be enjoyed.
We have much to be thankful for!
Larry & Michele Lynch
Pacific Palisades, CA
Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Lynch, we look forward to hearing how you’ll enjoy the second magnum!
We’d love to hear your stories as well. Tell us how wine has impacted your life, what memories it has helped
create, and share your wine philosophy—how do you choose when to open wine? You can post your story
on Facebook, Twitter (@Williams_Selyem) or via email ([email protected]).
Elegant
2014 Central Coast Pinot Noir
CENTRAL COAST
PINOT NOIR
Medium-Bodied
$39
13.5% ALC.
2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$55
13.9% ALC.
On the nose, the Central Coast is quite reticent at first but opens up
with elements of plum and hoisin sauce. With some air, notes of black
cherry and pomegranate emerge from the glass with a subtle lift of
cocoa powder and vanilla bean. The palate bursts with cherry and
plum flavors. The weight on the mid-palate gives way to the
prototypical chalky, mineral flavor profile of wines from this site. The
wine finishes with a cherry pit and coffee bean impression. The 2014 is
a sensational offering that can be enjoyed in the near term.
The 2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir exhibits, at its core, dark
cherry and cinnamon spice. Faded rose, nutmeg and allspice
complement the subtle notes of porcini and Oolong tea. Tightly
wound on the palate at first, the wine expands out onto the
mid-palate to deliver some wonderfully refreshing red fruits, citrus,
and tea-like tannins. This wine exemplifies the beauty and power of
the Russian River Valley Pinot Noir with its polish and grace. It can
be enjoyed in its youth or cellared for 3-6 years.
2014 Sonoma County Pinot Noir
2014 Terra de Promissio Vineyard
Pinot Noir
SONOMA COUNTY
$39
13.8% ALC.
An enticing nose of cola and sassafras are intertwined with fresh rose
petals, red raspberries and strawberries. A grilled herb note complexes
the fruit aromas and adds a wonderful sense of savory intrigue. The
palate is compact with an explosion of black cherry, nutmeg and
cinnamon flavors while the elegant, polished tannins extend to the
finish. The freshness of the acidity maintains the rather lithe quality
to the texture. Recommend cellaring for 3-4 years.
Full -Bodied
2014 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
SONOMA COAST
$55
13.7% ALC.
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$69
13.8% ALC.
The 2014 Westside Road Neighbors sings, with brilliant red fruit
notes of red raspberry and cranberry jumping from the glass. The
signature pencil lead and mineral-like complexion are very forward,
owing to the rocky, gravelly soils on the hillsides of Westside Road. In
addition to the brightness of the fruit, there is a meaty quality which
the Pommard clone often brings to this cuvée. Refreshing flavors of
Bing cherry and raspberry cling to the palate with tenacity. The
mid-palate is subtly smoky and earthy with a touch of tamarind that
adds to the complexity. The tannins are robust and compact but
incredibly polished all the way to the mineral finish. The sheer
density of this wine will require patience.
13.7% ALC.
Located in the southeast end of Petaluma, this 12-year old vineyard is
hitting its stride and continues to please. Deep and concentrated black
cherry and cherry pit notes mix with blood orange, vanilla, and
allspice. Subtle notes of terra cotta and sous bois, a French term
meaning forest-floor or undergrowth, add a wonderful elegance to the
darker notes of this wine. Lively and refreshing on the palate, the
cherry flavor profile coalesces into an earthy finish, with an overlay of
black tea-like tannins. Superb texture and finely knit, this wine will
age extremely well.
2014 Olivet Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir
Highlighted by dark cherry aromas with hints of bramble and
underbrush, the 2014 Sonoma Coast offers a full gamut of fruit and
savory notes. Crushed rocks and pencil shavings further add to the
overall complexity. The texture in the mouth is compelling with a
nice interplay of acidity and mouth-filling tannins. Flavors of black
cherry and pomegranate are juxtaposed with hints of toasted walnut
and bergamot. The palate is punctuated by cherry pit and a lovely
floral lift, leaving a lasting impression in the mouth. Please make sure
to hold onto a few bottles for the long haul.
2014 Westside Road Neighbors
Pinot Noir
SONOMA COAST
$58
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$78
13.7% ALC.
The deep and brooding nose suggests that there is clearly something
exotic and alluring about the Olivet Lane Pinot Noir. Dried rose
petals and black cherry co-mingle with notes of allspice and lanolin.
Mouth filling and rich at first sip, the texture expands on the palate
with concentrated but finely polished tannins, showcasing the
pedigree of the site. A wonderful mandarin orange and red raspberry
aromatic, coupled with a floral note on the back end, adds a
wonderful lift to this compelling offering. This wine should rest for a
few years in order for it to reach its full potential.
CHARDONNAY
2014 Unoaked Chardonnay
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$39
13.3% ALC.
A blend composed from older vines throughout the Russian River
Valley, the Unoaked Chardonnay typifies the precision and elegance
of Chardonnay aged in stainless steel. Notes of Meyer lemon and
minerals jump from the glass. With aeration, aromas of tropical fruits
mix with hints of melon to add tremendous depth. The flavor is
palate-coating with incredible richness and focus. Subtle notes of
Kaffir lime and a hint of fresh earth round out this highly expressive
Chardonnay. Enjoy this wine as an aperitif or pair with pesce crudo
or sashimi. Drink anytime in the next 6 years.
$58
2014 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
13.9% ALC.
Located in the hills on the southwest corner of the Russian River
Valley, the Heintz Vineyard is perfectly situated for a long, slow
growing season. Grown in prized Goldridge soil, the wine exhibits
the quintessential Chardonnay from this site; dusty and quartz-like
in aromatics and flavor. The warm days and cold nights result in a
tropical fruit profile with refreshing acidity and fine balance. Apple
pie spices mix with Comice pear and lemon curd notes both in the
nose and on the palate. The finish is refreshing with an elegant mineral component that is unmistakable. Drink now or age 10-15 years.
Vintage Notes fromJeff
and our stellar winemaking team
Continuing the string of great vintages, 2014 completes
the trifecta of extremely high quality growing seasons.
The 2014s exhibit a great purity of place, with generous
fruit and elegant textures. The 2014 growing season
started out as one of the driest winters on record with
only 40% of normal rainfall by mid-season. The moisture
sensors in our vineyards help us monitor the soil profile.
Extremely dry conditions over the winter months
prompted irrigation in December and January, ensuring
the vines had enough moisture, effectively mimicking
winter rainfall. It was another early bud break season;
almost 14 days earlier than “normal.” When rain in early
April finally appeared it helped replenish the soil’s
moisture profile to re-invigorate the plants and boost
growth. May brought flowering, as expected, and fruit
set was bountiful overall for a third straight year. The
2014 Olivet Lane Vineyard Chardonnay
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$58
14.1% ALC.
harvest season was near perfect with warm temperatures,
which allowed for a leisurely picking schedule. 2014 was
The 2014 Olivet Lane Chardonnay is highly expressive on the nose
with notes of white flowers, yellow apple, fresh pineapple, and
tangerine pith that seem to leap from the glass. The depth of the wine
is accentuated with savory elements of pencil lead, and a waxy,
lanolin-like element. The flavors build on the palate with Meyer
lemon and apple pie spices leavened with a starfruit back note. The
acidity is seamlessly integrated and carries notes of minerals and
gravel to the elegant finish. The structure of this wine lends itself to
aging, or open now to pair with your favorite mushroom risotto.
a wonderful growing season that has yielded another fine
ZINFANDEL
GEWÜRZTRAMINER
2014 Papera Vineyard Zinfandel
RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
$58
14.8% ALC.
The nearly opaque color of the Papera immediately intrigues the
senses. The nose is stunning, with brooding elements of loganberry
and boysenberry, with an exotic element of India ink. Beneath the
fruit are beautifully integrated notes of vanilla, nut spices and hints
of anise, fennel, and underbrush. The palate is equally exciting, and
is driven by the refreshing acidity through the finish. Blackberry
cobbler and blood orange peel are interlaced with star anise and
cocoa powder flavors. The tannins are robust in this wine but
seamlessly integrate within the architecture of this outstanding
effort. This is old vine Zinfandel at its best. Can be enjoyed now
but will benefit from some age.
set of wines that speak of the place. In short, 2014 is
another superb vintage of compelling nature and should
allow for long-range cellaring for those to choose to age
their wines for 7- 10 years.
2014 Vista Verde Vineyard Late Harvest
Gewürztraminer
$40/375 ml
SAN BENITO COUNTY
9.0% ALC.
This wine has a vibrant nose of fresh rose petals, exotic tropical fruits,
and orange marmalade, which are immediately apparent upon
pouring the wine. On the palate, notes of Mirabelle plum, yellow
apple, and marzipan mix with the beautifully integrated oak tones of
nutmeg, allspice and vanilla. Hints of talcum powder join the fruit
notes and add depth to this highly expressive wine. At first sip, the
wine seems almost honeyed but the palate fans out with an incredible
focus of acidity. Flavors of plum and lychee nut mingle with baking
spices that meld into the signature crushed rock profile on the finish.
A wonderful conclusion to any meal! Given the chance we’d cellar
this wine, however summer stone fruit cobbler, almond torte, or
strawberry shortcake would be reason enough to open early.
Spotlight
on Winemaker Jeff Mangahas
Jeff Mangahas, Winemaker at
Williams Selyem, started tasting and
collecting wine shortly after
graduating from the University of
Washington in 1993. Growing up in
Washington State, the wine industry
was exciting and constantly evolving.
This industry piqued Jeff’s interest
and, since he always had an
investigative sort of personality,
moved him to travel and learn about
international vineyards and
winemaking in both France and Italy.
Jeff’s degree from the University of
Washington, in Cellular and Molecular Biology, gave him a great
foundation upon which to start his career as a research scientist. After
many years at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle,
he chose to make a career change and marry his scientific background
with his hobby of collecting wine.
Driven by his love for wine, Jeff enrolled in the Enology program at UC
Davis and, after graduating with a Masters of Science degree in 2003, took
on his first harvest position with Artesa Vineyards. Soon after, Jeff became
Assistant Winemaker at Dutton-Goldfield where he delved into the world
of cool-climate Pinot Noir. Then, he went on to be the Winemaker at
Hartford Family Winery, specializing in Pinot Noir from Russian River
Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations. His next move brought him here
to Williams Selyem in 2011. For 5 years, he has been in pursuit of making
the best wines, from the best grapes, from the best growers.
When asked what makes WILLIAMS SELYEM wines standout from so
many other Pinot Noir producers, Jeff says that it’s our “commitment to
quality through and through. We are focused on expressing the
uniqueness of each site and vineyard. We have some of the best vineyards
around, and everyone is committed to executing the necessary steps to
achieve consistently excellent results.”
The experience Jeff would ultimately like people to have when they taste
our wine would be to “…enjoy the distinctive style of our wines and
learn about how expressive a wine can be of a place, through our
thoughtful growing and winemaking process. We have rich tradition at
Williams Selyem and I look forward to sharing our wines with everyone!”
Important
Dates
MARCH 6
Close of Release
MARCH 14
Shipping Begins
(weather permitting)
APRIL 1-3
Pickup Weekend Event at
Williams Selyem Estate Winery
APRIL 4-17
Pickups by appointment at
Williams Selyem Estate Winery
(unclaimed wine will be
shipped on April 19)
APRIL 22-24
Pickup Weekend Event
at Millbrook Winery in NY
CONTACT US
www.williamsselyem.com
[email protected]
Phone: 707-433-6425
Fax: 707-431-4862
Ordering
•
Online ordering is strongly encouraged! To access your allocation, use the customized hyperlink in
the email we’ll send to you on the opening day of the release. Or, sign in via our website using your
user credentials.
•
Orders are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Allocations are not guaranteed; they represent the
number of bottles available to you until the wine sells out (which is often before the last day to order).
Please place your order as soon as possible for best order fulfillment.
•
For bottles beyond your allocation, please use the wish list column. These requests will be filled, if
possible, after the close of the release on March 6. You do not need to include payment for wish list
wines; we will charge or invoice your account later if the request is filled.
•
While online ordering is strongly encouraged, you may fax your completed order form to
(707) 431-4862. If paying by check, please send via mail to 7227 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
•
Order confirmations will be sent via email. Please verify your address!
•
Faxed or mailed orders submitted without written payment will not be filled; phone and email orders
are not accepted.
Shipping
•
Orders will begin shipping on March 14, weather permitting.
•
Some states do not permit direct wine shipments, or they may limit the amount of wine we can ship to
you. Please see the back of your order form for more details and shipping/handling fees.
•
We require a shipping address where there is someone over 21 years of age available to sign for the
package during regular business hours.
WinePickup
CALIFORNIA
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If you intend to pick up your wine at Williams Selyem Winery, select the “CA Pickup” option on your order.
Our Spring 2016 Pickup Weekend will be Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 1-3, from 10:00 AM to
4:00 PM, at 7227 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Winery pickups are available by appointment at Williams Selyem from April 4-17 between
10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Please call or email at least one day in advance to schedule a pickup date:
(707) 433-6425 or [email protected]
Orders not picked up by Sunday, April 17 will be shipped at the customer’s expense to the billing
address listed on the order on Tuesday, April 19.
If you would like All Ways Cool (707) 545-7450 or 55 Degrees (707) 963-5513, or Fitch Mountain*
(707) 433-1247 to receive the order on your behalf, you must establish an account and coordinate
shipment with that company directly. (*No account required, only prior arrangements with Fitch
Mountain needed)
NEW YORK
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If you intend to pick up your wine at Millbrook Winery, select the “NY Pickup” option on your order.
The Spring 2016 Pickup Weekend at Millbrook Winery will be Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 22-24.
Daily winery pickups are available April 25 through May 31 between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM, no
appointment necessary. 26 Wing Road, Millbrook, NY 12545, (845) 662-WINE ext. 21,
[email protected], www.millbrookwine.com.