Jim Clendenen gained renown for crafting internationally acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in California. Among the region's top vintners, his work since 1982 established the benchmark for contemporary, terroir-focused Californian wines made from Burgundian grape varieties. Wines bearing the Clendenen Family Vineyards label represent more than just another brand; they reflect Jim's passionate commitment. These artisanal, nuanced wines, crafted in small batches, possess a distinctive character and age gracefully. With enduring longevity, food-friendly qualities, firm acidity, and moderate alcohol levels, they are integral parts of Jim's story that we are proud to import and represent in the UK.
Rancho La Cuna, located at Jim's ranch and his residence, is a small 15-acre vineyard nestled on steep hillsides. Here, it yields a Pinot Noir with deep, robust character and remarkable complexity. The wine is matured in premium new French oak barrels for 24 months and bottled without filtration.
NOTES FROM VINOVOSS SOMMELIER
Clendenen Rancho La Cuna Pinot Noir is a highly regarded wine known for its elegance and complexity.This Pinot Noir showcases the unique characteristics of the Rancho La Cuna vineyard, located in California.
On the nose, this wine offers enticing aromas of ripe red berries, such as cherries and raspberries, accompanied by subtle floral notes and a hint of spice. The palate is well-balanced, with a silky texture and refined tannins. Flavors of red fruits, including cranberries and strawberries, are complemented by earthy undertones and a touch of oak.
The Clendenen Rancho La Cuna Pinot Noir is a medium-bodied wine with a long, lingering finish. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, such as roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. This wine is best enjoyed slightly chilled, around 14-16°C, to fully appreciate its delicate nuances.
The Central Coast of California is a wine lover's paradise, boasting a wide variety of climates, soils, and grape varieties. Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Central Coast spans from Monterey County in the north to Santa Barbara County in the south. With its diverse topography and Mediterranean climate, the Central Coast is home to some of the most renowned wineries in the United States.
The Central Coast has a long and storied history of winemaking, dating back to the mid-1800s. The first vineyards were planted in the Santa Clara Valley, and by the late 1800s, the region was producing some of the finest wines in the country. The region's reputation for quality wines was further solidified in the early 1989, when the Santa Clara Valley was declared among the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States.