While the history of Failla (pronounced FAY-LA) is short, it is not without its complexities - our first vintage release was as Failla-Jordan in 1998. That year, Failla's first release of Alban Vineyard Viognier (Edna Valley) and Que Syrah Syrah (Sonoma Coast) coincided with planting the first blocks at our Estate Vineyard in Cazadero. The first Estate releases would be several years away. The winemaker's viticultural training in France greatly influences his farming and winemaking choices. Our eleven acres of Estate vineyards today produce Syrah, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that capture the essence of California's coolest regions. The Vineyards represented in this bottling are a stellar depiction of quality farming, mature vines, and the distinct terroir of cool climates that are graced with the soils, fog, and ocean influence that bring Pinot Noir to life. Roughly 25% of the grapes used in this bottling are estate grown and farmed. The Pinot Noir is pressed 30% whole cluster, with native yeast fermentation. It is aged for 8 months in 15% new French oak, and 85% neutral. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered. Aromatically the wine has a floral perfume, with notes of bright red fruits and hints of wild herbs. On the palate, the wine has juicy pomegranate seeds along with a structure of finesse and elegance.
