The name Fetzer echoes in the history of California wine. The Fetzers were pioneers of organic and biodynamic winegrowing in California. The founders, Barney and Kathleen Fetzer created the brand many decades ago with the help of their 11 children. Over the years Fetzer was sold to Brown-Forman (Jack Daniels, etal folks) and the family members all created their little niche wine ventures, among them one that we feature is Saracina and Atrea. Now we added Masut. The winemakers Jacob and Ben Fetzer (3rd generation Fetzers) are the sons of Bobby Fetzer who sadly died at a young age of 51. Both boys grew up on the ranch and at age 4 they pulled leaves on 6 acres of vineyard, but age 8 they made their first wine a blend of Cabernet and Sangiovese and the rest is history. Today they are making their own wine from the family’s Masut Ranch. The Masut Ranch is 1500 acres, but only 27 acres were planted to grapevines in 1996. Having identified 13 separate blocks, each with its unique slope and contour, they selected appropriate clones: 113, 115 and 777
Masut 2009 Pinot Noir “Estate” Mendocino
A small production wine, this 2009 Masut “Estate” Pinot Noir offers a velvety soft texture. On the nose this organic/biodynamic wine welcomes you with black cherry, a whiff of real Pinot “earthiness”. On the palate this medium to full-bodied wine offers great complexity and a striking balance of fruit (wild berry jam, coffee and a hint of spice ) and acid which compliments the toasty vanilla richness and hints of cocoa on the finish. Fine tannins and vibrant acidity give it an elegant structure.