Website: https://www.rameywine.com/
Ramey stands out as a premier winery in Sonoma, with David Ramey earning a reputation for his Chardonnay craftsmanship. Yet, Ramey offers more varieties beyond just Chardonnay. The winery initially had no vineyards of its own from its foundation in 1996 until 2012, instead leasing vine space and purchasing grapes. In 2012, they acquired West Side Farms, a beautiful 75-acre property on the periphery of the Russian River, out of which 38.5 acres are cultivated with vines first planted in 1989. Significant efforts have been put into replanting since the acquisition.
My visit to Westside Farms occurred on a splendid July morning, accompanied by Claire Ramey, who, along with her brother Alan, is continuing the legacy initiated by their father David, who remains actively involved, particularly on the Ramey Instagram platform. During their tenure at Westside Farms, they managed existing long-term leases on portions of the vineyard. For instance, the plot where we saw Pinot Noir used to display signs from Twomey; that area has only recently reverted to their hands.
A notable part of the vineyard is a vast expanse of Chardonnay, recently replanted using clone 4 on GNR1 rootstock known for its resistance to nematodes—a crucial trait given the significant nematode presence in the area.
Near the river, a new grape variety named Caminante Blanc has been introduced, which was developed in 2019 by Andrew Walker from UC Davis. This variety is resistant to Pierce’s Disease (PD), which poses a significant threat in the riverside areas, making the use of such a resistant variety imperative. Caminante Blanc is primarily composed of 97% Vitis vinifera—specifically the Carignan, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay grapes—with the remaining resistance deriving from native American vines, V. arizonica and V. riparia. Another PD-resistant variety also exists called Ambulo Blanc, however, it resembles the taste of Sauvignon Blanc, leading to the preference for Caminante.
Ramey Wine Cellars Westside Farms Chardonnay 2021 Russian River Valley
Characterized by its 13.5% alcohol content and 19-month aging in concrete, this chardonnay combines a juicy and lively essence with delightful acidity and texture. It exhibits a mild creaminess and bold notes of citrus and pear, complemented by saline, mineral elements and a zesty finish, creating a harmonious blend focused on texture.
Ramey Wine Cellars Westside Farms Pinot Noir 2022 Russian River Valley
This Pinot Noir, notable for its three-week post-ferment skin contact and low pH/high acidity profile, is partly aged in 50% new oak barrels. Although its youth reveals the presence of oak, it also delivers a lovely array of pure cherry and raspberry flavors, beautifully perfumed with cherry and spice notes, and a blend of ripeness and delicacy. The forthcoming integration of the oak promises a remarkable future for this wine.
Ramey Wine Cellars Cold Creek Vineyard Syrah 2018 Russian River Valley
Featuring an enchanting combination of meaty, peppery richness and sweet berry and cherry flavors complemented by hints of charcoal and dried herbs. The ripe black fruits that appear towards the end add depth, while its nice grip and stern finish balance the fruity and savory aspects, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
Notes from a visit in March 2016:
David Ramey is renowned for his expertise in Chardonnay production, operating from just outside the town of Healdsburg. During my visit, he was busy with the bottling process. His methods include whole cluster pressing and barrel fermentation using indigenous yeasts and bacteria, without employing filtration. “I utilize classic techniques,” he explained, identifying his approach as neo-Burgundian. He shared his perspective on ripeness, stating, “I tend to steer clear of the excessive discussions on ripeness. My wines have always been moderately styled. Typically, fruits in our area mature to alcohol levels of about 14-14.5%. It’s all about moderation.”
David Ramey Russian River Chardonnay 2012 Sonoma, California
A balanced profile with a touch of richness. Features enticing notes of spicy pear, peach, and pineapple, enhanced by substantial richness and a citrus essence. Stylish. 93/100
David Ramey Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2012 Sonoma, California
Offers a nose of toast, peach, and pear with considerable depth. The palate boasts richly spicy fruit coupled with a vibrant citrus quality. 93/100
David Ramey Platt Vineyard Chardonnay 2011 Sonoma, California
A vineyard located just four miles from the Pacific, which cultivates the old Wente clone. It has a fresh, aromatic scent featuring pear, spice, and citrus. The flavor profile is sharp and well-defined, with crisp notes of pear and citrus, displaying excellent linearity and superb acidity. Rating: 94/100.
David Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2012 Napa, California
This wine offers a rich yet precise blend of toasty pear and peach tones. It possesses substantial depth and remarkable focus, characterized by appealing pear and citrus flavors accompanied by a slightly pithy texture and a lemony finish. Pure and delightful. Rating: 93/100.
David Ramey Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay 2011 Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California
Originating from vines planted in 1972 in the Russian River Valley, this wine presents a finely toasty aroma with hints of pear, spice, and white peach. The palate reveals a dense, sweet mix of pear and peach fruits ending with a spicy flourish. Rating: 94/100.
David Ramey Pedregal Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Napa Valley, California
This Oakville vineyard produces a refined, brooding nose of sweet gravelly blackcurrant, which is both focused and fresh. The taste is richly fruity yet extremely well-balanced, showcasing smooth ripe flavors mingled with fine gravelly, spicy nuances. Exceptionally refined. Rating: 94/100.