Walala Vineyard’s remarkable character stems from its 1,200-foot elevation, gravelly loam soils and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Walala vines benefited from the cooler 2023 vintage, allowing for long hang times and development of complex flavors and ripe tannins. It offers layers of deep and bright red fruit aromas with tropical notes. Clone 113 shined in the cooler conditions of 2023 offering layers of amazing aromas and flavors. Clone 115 provided the structural backbone and clone 828 was fermented whole cluster, adding complexity and length.
points
Owen Bargreen
"The outstanding 2023 ‘Walala Vineyard’ Pinot Noir bottling is sourced from this Sonoma Coast AVA location that is near the Pacific Ocean. Wonderfully briny on the palate, this delivers salted red raspberry and Yakima cherry flavors that collide with copious minerals and satsuma orange zest on the palate. Medium to full-bodied with fabulous structure, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years." - Owen Bargreen
points
International Wine Report
"The 2023 Walala Vineyard Pinot Noir from Sojourn reveals a radiant ruby core with subtle garnet highlights encircled by a pale crimson rim. On the palate, it unveils a savory interplay of wild strawberry and candied Bing cherries, balanced with a hint of crushed sea salt, lemony herbs, and tangy tangerine peel. The wine's full body is underscored by an impressive framework, offering bright, layered acidity and finely woven tannins that provide a gentle yet firm grip. The finish is long and captivating, marked by a vibrant medley of ripe fruit and toasted lemon zest." - Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
Walala Vineyard
West Sonoma Coast
The Walala Vineyard is perched along a ridge 1,200 feet above sea level, just inland from the rugged Sonoma coastline. In its position above the dense fog line, the vineyard experiences the moderate temperatures that give grapes longer hang times for optimal flavor and ripeness.