Drawing on years of expertise in Sonoma’s celebrated Russian River Valley, Ross offers practical tips and insider knowledge for a memorable tasting experience.

How many glasses are in a bottle of wine?

“Each bottle has four to five glasses, depending on your pours.”

How long does a winery tasting take?

“A tasting at our winery averages between 90 minutes and two hours, during which we taste through six, sometimes seven, different wines.”

How much should you tip at a wine tasting?

“Tipping at a wine tasting is personal but polite. In today’s more expansive service environment, tipping 15-20%—as you would in a restaurant—is appreciated. Of course, you can always be more generous.”

How many wines do you taste during a wine tasting?

“The number of wines poured varies. It could be as few as three or as many as eight. At Halleck Vineyard, we used to pour eight wines, but we found it took too long. Now, we typically pour four to six.”

Are wine tastings fun?

“Absolutely! Wine tastings offer a sense of connection to the land where the wine is made and provide a unique opportunity to meet people from all over the world who share a common interest. It’s a perfect setting for conversation.”

Is Sonoma or Napa better for wine?

“It’s a personal choice. Napa Valley is more concentrated and offers fewer varietals, making it possible to visit three wineries in a day. Sonoma County, which is two-and-a-half times larger, boasts 18 distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) and many more varietals. You could spend a week exploring Sonoma and barely scratch the surface.”

What should you avoid doing before a wine tasting?

“Don’t wear lipstick or cologne. Tasting relies heavily on smell, and strong scents can interfere with the experience for you and others.”

What wine is good for a beginner?

“It’s hard to predict what someone new to wine will like. Generally, starting with white wines is a good idea as they cleanse the palate and prepare it for the deeper, more nuanced flavors of reds.”

Do you swallow during a wine tasting?

“Whether to swallow is a personal choice. When tasting professionally, I never swallow—I spit. Socially, I enjoy swallowing the wine, but if I reach a point where it’s uncomfortable, I’ll spit while continuing to taste.”

How much does a typical wine tasting cost?

“The range is broad. Some wineries still offer free tastings, but most charge between $25 and $150, with premium tastings going even higher. Costs usually reflect the average price of the wines served.”

Do you need reservations for a wine tasting in Sonoma?

“Most wineries today require reservations, though a few still allow drop-ins. Reserved experiences are often more curated, such as seated tastings or pairings, while drop-ins are generally simpler.”

What is the best month to visit Sonoma?

“Every month offers something unique. September and October are busy with harvest season, but winter months like December are quieter and just as beautiful, with sunny days and serene vineyard landscapes.”

Why is Russian River Valley Pinot Noir so good?

“Many winemakers attribute its quality to the fog and maritime influence, but it’s more complex than that. For example, we work with a vineyard on the eastern side of Sonoma Mountain that gets no coastal influence yet produces extraordinary Pinot Noir. The beauty of Russian River Pinot Noir is ultimately beyond explanation—it’s something to simply appreciate.”

What snacks go well with wine?

“Cheese, crackers, and dried fruits are classic choices. The specific pairing depends on the wine, but these are safe bets across most varietals.”

What cheeses pair best with Russian River Valley Pinot Noir?

“From my experience, aged Gouda, truffle brie, piranha cheese, and goat Gouda pair beautifully with Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.”

Is it rude not to buy a bottle of wine at a tasting?

“Rude might be too strong a word, but it’s impolite. If you’ve enjoyed the wines and the hospitality, buying at least one bottle is a good-faith gesture that supports the winery.”

Can I wear jeans to a wine tasting?

“Absolutely. Casual attire is perfectly acceptable. The most important thing is to wear something you’re comfortable in.”

Why do you swirl and smell wine?

“Swirling and smelling engage your senses and prime your palate for the full flavor experience. Aroma plays a significant role in how we perceive wine.”

Where are you doing this interview from?

“I’m at our wine lodge, on the deck of the Airbnb we offer to our wine club members, inner circle members, and guests from around the world. Wine is included with the stay, and we have a finished sauna and a beautiful deck tucked in the woods next to the vineyard.”

Ross Halleck’s insights make navigating the Sonoma wine tasting experience effortless and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a first-time visitor, his advice ensures a rewarding trip to the heart of California’s wine country.

The pair guide us through the wines with careful attention to the nuances of each, providing an educational perspective on how the region’s terroir influences flavor profiles.

North Coast Sauvignon Blanc: A Bright Expression of Dry Creek Valley

The tasting begins with Halleck Vineyard’s North Coast Sauvignon Blanc, sourced from the Dry Creek Valley AVA in northern Sonoma County. Known for its warm, sun-soaked climate and mineral-rich soils, Dry Creek Valley produces wines with a unique balance of fruit and minerality. Ross Halleck describes the Sauvignon Blanc as tropical and mineral-driven, with notes of pineapple, guava, lemongrass, and citrus. The wine’s crisp acidity and vibrant fruit make it a refreshing option, ideal for pairing with seafood or enjoying on a warm day.

Dry White Zinfandel Rosé: Fruity and Creamy from Russian River Valley

Harris Miner, the director of wine education, introduces the Dry White Zinfandel Rosé, crafted from grapes grown in the Russian River Valley AVA. This region is known for its cool climate, which is influenced by coastal fog, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors. Miner notes that the rosé showcases rich, creamy flavors of strawberry, white peach, and apricot, with hints of citrus and floral elements. This balanced rosé is perfect for warm weather sipping or as an accompaniment to lighter dishes like salads or charcuterie.

Dry Gewürztraminer: Aromatic and Balanced from Russian River Valley

Also hailing from the Russian River Valley, Halleck Vineyard’s Dry Gewürztraminer is introduced by Ross Halleck. He highlights the wine’s rose petal, lychee, and tangerine aromas, while Miner remarks on the wine’s bright acidity, which adds balance to its floral and fruity characteristics. The cool temperatures of the Russian River Valley lend themselves well to this aromatic white varietal, producing a wine that is both fragrant and refreshing, ideal for pairing with spicy cuisine or rich, flavorful dishes.

Three Sons Pinot Noir: A Delicate and Earthy Expression from Russian River Valley

The tasting transitions to red wines with Halleck Vineyard’s Three Sons Pinot Noir, also from the Russian River Valley. Ross Halleck describes this Pinot Noir as having bright cherry and cinnamon flavors, with an earthy, herbaceous undertone. The region’s cooler climate allows for a longer growing season, contributing to the wine’s complexity and balance. This Pinot Noir is a fine match for dishes featuring mushrooms or roasted meats, highlighting the varietal’s delicate structure and earthy depth.

Sonoma Coast Hillside Cuvée Pinot Noir: Savory and Elegant from Sonoma Coast

Harris Miner presents the Sonoma Coast Hillside Cuvée Pinot Noir, sourced from the Sonoma Coast AVA, which stretches along the Pacific Ocean. This AVA is known for its rolling hills and coastal fog, which result in cool temperatures ideal for Pinot Noir. Miner describes the savory, mushroom-like qualities of the wine, with bright notes of cranberry and pomegranate providing a fresh, fruity counterpoint. The wine’s balance of savory and fruit elements makes it a versatile pairing option for grilled meats or earthy vegetarian dishes.

Haas Vineyard Pinot Noir: Robust and Complex from Sonoma Mountain

The tasting concludes with Halleck Vineyard’s Haas Vineyard Pinot Noir, which comes from the Sonoma Mountain AVA. This elevated, warmer region in Sonoma County is known for producing robust, full-bodied wines. Ross Halleck describes this Pinot Noir as rich and robust, with deep spice, plum, and tar notes, drawing comparisons to a Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s bold structure and complexity make it an excellent match for hearty dishes such as lamb or beef, offering a powerful yet balanced red wine experience.

Sonoma County’s Viticultural Legacy

Throughout the video, Ross Halleck and Harris Miner emphasize Sonoma County’s unique ability to produce exceptional wines across a range of varietals. The region’s varied microclimates, from the fog-cooled Russian River Valley to the sun-drenched slopes of Sonoma Mountain, offer a diversity of terroirs that contribute to the distinctiveness of the wines produced.

For those interested in exploring these wines further, reservations for tastings at Halleck Vineyard can be made here.

This tasting session highlights Halleck Vineyard’s dedication to producing wines that reflect the unique qualities of Sonoma County. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to the world of wine, these releases offer something for every palate, with the promise of both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging potential.

“Each bottle of our 2022 Halleck Vineyard Balletto Russian River Valley Chardonnay is like a whispered secret between the verdant lands of Sonoma County and the relentless waves of the Pacific. As vintners, we’re merely the translators of this intimate dialogue, crafting a liquid expression that carries within the tales of the soil, the fog, and the vines’ yearning to be told. Tipping its hat to Grand Cru White Burgundy, we offer this pursuit of excellence,” says Ross Halleck, Vintner.

This Chardonnay is cultivated from Clone 17 on 114 rootstock grapes, grown exclusively for Halleck Vineyard by the esteemed Balletto Vineyards. The marine fog layers from morning to mid-afternoon have kissed these vines, infusing the grapes with a unique blend of flavors only found in this region.

This vineyard is Certified Green by the Lodi Rules on Sustainable Winegrowing, emphasizing our commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.

Award Winning Sonoma Wines

Tasting Notes

This Russian River Valley Chardonnay is a symphony to the senses. The expressive nose is enveloped in floral notes and delicate citrus and green apple aromas. On the palate, bright, crisp acids dance with minerality, leading to a silky mouthfeel. The flavor unfolds with a bouquet of green apple and floral notes, accentuated by hints of spice and a touch of salinity, reminiscent of a grand cru White Burgundy.

Winemaking Process

The 2022 Halleck Vineyard Balletto Chardonnay was meticulously fermented in steel tanks, with 20% of the wine residing for three weeks in neutral Oak, enhancing its texture and complexity. There was no malolactic fermentation, preserving the wine’s crispness. Post-fermentation, the wine was tank-aged until bottling to refine its flavors further.

Pair this enchanting Chardonnay with creamy Jasper Hill Farms Willoughby cheese, succulent scallops, or a hearty roast chicken to elevate your culinary experience.

With only 182 cases produced, we invite you to indulge in this limited edition release, a true celebration of the Russian River Valley’s allure.

Technical Details

• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Vintage: 2022
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Vineyard Designation: Balletto Vineyards
• Sugar: 0
• Acid: 6.37g / L
• Bottling Date: August 2023
• Residual Sugar: .61g / L

About Halleck Vineyard

Nestled within the esteemed American Viticultural Areas of Sonoma County, Halleck Vineyard stands as a hallmark of viticultural finesse and legacy, specializing in crafting illustrious Pinot Noirs, cool-climate white wines, and ethereal rosés. Our wines are meticulously crafted from revered – Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, and Sonoma Mountain AVAs, embodying the quintessence of these unique terroirs.

A family-owned winery, we at Halleck Vineyard are deeply committed to perpetuating a tradition of winemaking that resonates with connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts. Our wines have been judged Best of Class on seven occasions in top-tier wine judicatures, including the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, Sunset Magazine International Wine Competition, and the California State Fair. Such accolades reflect not merely the finesse of our wines but our ongoing pursuit of excellence.

We make small production vintages available through allocation and served on the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants in San Francisco, Chicago, and New York. This ensures our wines find a place among those with a seasoned appreciation for exceptional experiences.

We warmly invite you to delve into the Halleck Vineyard experience at a wine tasting salon nestled at our serene Sebastopol Estate Winery. We open our doors to guests for an intimate exploration of our wines on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays by appointment only. Here, with sweeping Russian River Valley views amidst the whispers of the cool Pacific breeze, you will uncover the narrative of each bottle, intricately woven with the threads of tradition, passion, and our unyielding quest for perfection.

Let your journey of the senses commence at Halleck Vineyard, where every sip is a tribute to the legacy and majesty of Sonoma County.

This exquisite Sonoma County Pinot Noir earned a remarkable 96-point score and secured the much-coveted Best Pinot Noir title amidst fierce competition from over 900 wines.

Exemplary Record of Excellence

This marks the seventh Best of Class Award for Halleck Vineyard wines. Prior accolades include:

1. Best of Class  – 2014 Farm Russian River Valley Pinot Noir in the $67 and over category (top price point) at the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 
2. Best of Class – 2016 Clone 828 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir on the $60-$69.99 category (2nd highest price point) at the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 
3. Best of the Best, Best White Wine – 2018 Little Sister Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc at the 2019 Sunset International Wine Competition
4. Best White Wine in California – 2018 Little Sister Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc by the 2019 Orange County Wine Society
5. Best White Wine in California – 2018 Russian River Valley Gewurztraminer at the 2019 California State Fair
6. Best of Class – 2001 Sonoma Coast Estate Grown Pinot Noir at the 2003 Pinot Noir Shoot Out

Craftsmanship in Every Bottle

The acclaimed 2019 Halleck Vineyard Three Sons Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, with just 675 cases produced and only 198 cases remaining. This cool-climate red wine embodies the artistry and dedication of Halleck Vineyard’s winemaking team.

Distinguished by its exclusivity, the 2019 Halleck Vineyard Three Sons Pinot Noir is not available in retail stores. Members of the Halleck Vineyard Inner Circle Wine Club enjoy the privilege of acquiring allocations of this premium Pinot Noir.

Exceptional Tasting Experience

For wine enthusiasts seeking an exceptional tasting experience, a visit to Halleck Vineyard Estate Winery in Sebastopol is a must. Here, guests can savor the distinctive flavors of this remarkable varietal during a Wine Tasting Salon event. Wine tastings are available by appointment on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with seatings at 11 am and 3 pm.

Wine that Travels

Moreover, the 2019 Halleck Vineyard Three Sons Russian River Valley Pinot Noir can be savored at exclusive private clubs nationwide and acclaimed Michelin Star restaurants in San Francisco, Chicago, and New York. It is available for purchase at the online Halleck Vineyard Sonoma Wine Shop.

Tasting Notes: A Journey of Flavors

This Pinot Noir captivates with its stunning garnet color and brilliant luster. It beckons with aromas of vibrant red cherries and dry leaves, leading to subtle hints of white pepper and clove. The palate offers a captivating journey, with a clear start, a lush midsection boasting bright red fruit and underbrush notes, and a delightful finish with traces of baking spice, clove, cinnamon, and black pepper.

The Art of Winemaking

The grapes for this exceptional Pinot Noir were harvested before dawn, meticulously hand-sorted, and gently de-stemmed. A cold soak of five days preceded whole berry fermentation with bi-daily punch-downs. Fermentation took place in an open-top five-ton tank over 12-16 days, followed by aging in carefully selected French Oak barrels. The barrel program featured 30% new French Oak, 30% one-year-old French Oak, and 40% older barrels. The wine matured in barrels for ten months, with a single racking at five months during blending.

Wine Specifications

• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Harvest Date: September 2019
• Acid: 6.19 g/L
• pH: 3.67
• Bottling Date: August 2020
• Residual Sugar: 1.19 g/L
• Alcohol: 14.3%

2023 Sommelier Judges

A distinguished panel of sommeliers presided over the judging process:

1. Chief Wine & Spirits Judge: Jesse Rodriguez, National Director of Sales, FUTO Estate, Big Sky, Montana
2. Sommelier Judge: Dana Farner, Winery and Import Consultant, Storica, Minneapolis, Minnesota
3. Sommelier Judge: Nicholas George, GM & Wine Director, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, San Diego, California
4. Sommelier Judge: Nick Burns, Manager & Sommelier, Tango Room, Dallas, Texas
5. Sommelier Judge: Lisa Redwine, GM & Wine Buyer, Market Restaurant + Bar, San Diego, California
6. Sommelier Judge: Zack Musick, Director of Education, The German Wine Collection, Orange County, California
7. Sommelier Judge: Meghan Vergara, Proprietor, M Rose, Napa, California
8. Sommelier Judge: Adam Jesberger, Lead Sommelier at Rancho Guejito Vineyards, San Diego, California
9. Sommelier Judge: Jessica Solomon, Head Sommelier, Born & Raised, San Diego, California
10. Sommelier Judge: Rachael Aresco, Sommelier, Bob’s Steak & Chop House, Carlsbad, California

About Sommelier Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition

The Sommelier Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition is a prestigious event in the world of wine and spirits, known for its rigorous judging process conducted by leading professionals in the industry. The competition recognizes and celebrates excellence in winemaking and spirits production, making it a sought-after platform for producers and vintners to showcase their exceptional offerings.

While the 27% jump in Sebastopol is massive, the actual price increase of $10 is less than the price of one movie theater ticket or a quick-service restaurant meal. The overall impact on consumers is moderate, but the study shows that wine tasting room prices still appear to be rising, despite the Federal Reserve’s attempts to tame inflation with interest rate hikes.

In 2023, sixty percent of Sonoma wine tasting rooms kept their prices the same, 30% increased, and 10% decreased prices. The second sharpest gains in the county were prices up 11% in the City of Sonoma and 9% in Healdsburg. Prices decreased by 3% in Santa Rosa, and Geyserville winery tasting room prices held steady.

In our 2022 wine tasting report tracking pricing before and after the pandemic lockdown in California, we observed a 14% increase in wine tasting room prices in Sebastopol. While this figure falls on the lower end compared to other Sonoma cities included in our analysis, it is important to note that Sebastopol is home to numerous micro wineries. The 27% price increase witnessed in this city may be attributed to a lag effect, with small business owners gradually adjusting their rates to align with the prevailing rates across the county. 

Winery Reservations, Not as Required

Sonoma wineries are easing their reservation policies. In 2022, only 15% of Sonoma wine tasting rooms accommodated walk-ins. But in 2023, that number rose to 26% as more Sonoma wineries sought to accommodate spontaneous arrivals.

Santa Rosa has the highest number of wineries that accept walk-ins at 36%, followed by the City of Sonoma at 31%, Geyserville at 30%, Sebastopol at 22%, and Healdsburg at 17%.

Wine Tastings with Food Pairings

Although wine tastings that include food pairings tend to be considered higher-value, just 12% of entry-level wine tastings in Sonoma County include food pairings of any kind. Sebastopol has the most wineries with entry-level tastings that include food pairings, which may also explain the price increases, given the rising food costs.

Wine tastings in Sonoma County that include food pairings are priced 58% higher than wine tasting experiences that do not include food. While food pairings menus differ from winery to winery, they generally include single-bite delicacies such as cured porks, cheeses, olives, nuts, crackers, and/or dried fruits selected to enhance the flavor of the varietal poured. 

The average price of a wine tasting experience in Sonoma County, which includes food pairings, is $59. By city, the average price of wine tastings that include food pairings is $87 in the City of Sonoma, $70 in Santa Rosa, $57 in Sebastopol, $52 in Healdsburg, $45 in Glen Ellen, and $25 in Geyserville.

Reservations vs. Walk-Ins

Sonoma County saw a huge increase in wineries accepting walk-in customers, from 15% in 2022 to 26% in 2023, showing increased demand for spontaneous arrivals.

To download a copy of the 2023 Sonoma Wine Tasting Report, click here.

Ross hosted a wine-tasting event for his Inner Circle Wine Club members and hotel guests at The Amarano in Burbank, California, which provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of conviviality and fine wine. The hotel, which has 131 newly remodeled rooms, two meeting rooms, and a restaurant with a full bar, provided a sophisticated and welcoming setting for the occasion. 

Guests were treated to a selection of Halleck Vineyard’s finest wines, including the award-winning Clone 828 Pinot Noir and the crisp, refreshing Dry White Zinfandel while enjoying the hotel’s luxurious amenities and picturesque surroundings.

By taking his wines to new and diverse venues, Ross Halleck is building connections and forging relationships with a wider community of wine enthusiasts. After all, wine has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories, and wine tasting experiences like these provide the perfect opportunity to showcase his Sonoma Coast and Russian River wines and share his vision with a wider audience.

Special Los Angeles Wine Tasting

While many California visitors associate Hollywood with the motion picture studios, Burbank has quietly surpassed its neighboring city as the entertainment capital of Los Angeles. Home to Warner Bros. Studios, Walt Disney Studios, and Universal Studios, Burbank has become a hub for the entertainment industry. And nestled within its bustling streets is The Amarano, a hidden gem of a hotel where top celebrities working on shows and entertainment industry professionals can hideaway and reside outside the fanfare while they’re busy filming and dealmaking.

Ross Halleck brought a taste of his Sonoma family winery to Los Angeles by hosting the wine tasting event for guests who were treated to a selection of Halleck Vineyard fine wines, including their expressive and delicate Dry White Zinfandel rosé wine, their crisp Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc (judged “Best in Class” by Sunset Magazine), the harmoniously balanced Three Sons Russian River Pinot Noir (judged “Best in Class” at the LA International Wine Competition), and the award-winning Clone 828 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir (judged Double-Gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition).

As hotel guests and members of the Inner Circle Wine Club mingled and sipped on these small-production Sonoma at the wine bar, they indulged in various carefully paired cheeses, grilled steak, and San Felipe-style shrimp soft tacos. The intimate gathering provided a unique opportunity for attendees to try the flavors of the Sonoma vineyard in the heart of Los Angeles County, surrounded by the luxurious amenities of the Amarano Hotel.

By bringing his wines to a hotel frequented by industry professionals, Ross Halleck expanded his winery’s reach, creating opportunities for new connections with the entertainment industry. And as Burbank continues to solidify its position as the entertainment capital of Los Angeles, it’s clear that The Amarano’s wine tasting events will play a key role in the city’s future.

Hollywood Wine Experience

PJ Gunsagar and Brad Lewis of Spire Animation Studios, who were in town from the Bay Area on business, jumped at the opportunity to attend the wine tasting event and sample the latest Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast white and red wine releases. As they mingled with other guests and savored each sip, they couldn’t help but marvel at the complex flavors and expert craftsmanship that went into each varietal.

As accomplished executives in the entertainment industry, Gunsagar, and Lewis have collaborated on a variety of projects, including acclaimed animated feature films Ratatouille and How to Train Your Dragon. They were thrilled to have the chance to connect with other industry professionals at the wine tasting event, and be part of the vibrant community that Ross has created through his wines.

For Gunsagar and Lewis, the wine tasting event at The Amarano was not just a chance to enjoy rare, limited-reserve wines but also an opportunity to build relationships and network with others in the entertainment industry. They left the event feeling inspired and invigorated, eager to continue their work and to see what exciting developments the future may hold.

New Family Found

Erin Roberson and Patrick Regan are two lovebirds whose passion for each other is only matched by their love for fine wine. As they made their way to a wedding planning meeting with their parents, the couple took a moment to savor the crisp and refreshing taste of the Halleck Vineyard Russian River Valley Dry White Zinfandel.

Erin and Patrick’s love story is one for the ages, with the couple having met by chance online. They quickly fell in love and have been inseparable ever since. As they prepare to exchange vows and seal their futures at Corondelet House in Koreatown, they can’t help but feel grateful for the love and support of their families.

To make their special day even more unforgettable, Erin and Patrick have enlisted the help of Très L.A.. This renowned catering company specializes in creating unique and memorable dining experiences. With Très L.A.’s expert guidance, the couple will impress their guests with an exquisite culinary experience that perfectly complements the joyous occasion.

And when it comes time to hit the dance floor, Erin and Patrick will be grooving to the beats of DJ Second Song, a talented musician whose infectious energy and eclectic musical tastes will surely get the party started. As they celebrate their love and commitment to each other, Erin and Patrick know they have found a soulmate who shares their passion for life, love, family, and fine wine.

New Member Spotlight

Halleck Vineyard welcomes our newest member IASTE Assistant Director Karen Sudtell to the Inner Circle Wine Club. Karen – who learned about the private wine tasting event after receiving a newsletter notification – first tried Halleck Vineyard at the Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite, and decided to come out to meet Ross in person and try the wines, which are only available at select restaurants and through the wine club.

Karen recently wrapped principal photography on five episodes of The Company You Keep, a television show starring Milo Ventimiglia and Catherine Haena Kim, which tells the story of a con man and undercover CIA agent who, after a night of passion, ignite a love affair that puts them on a collision.

When LaRue hosted an intimate wine dinner at her Colorado Springs home earlier this year, she set out to find the best duck wine pairing to serve with  Duck Confit, Pear, and Fennel Bites, a recipe from Food52 that incorporates confit duck breast baked in crispy phyllo dough. 

Her selection was the Halleck Vineyard 2018 Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir, a Gold Medal winner that scored 96 points at the California State Fair. Only 242 cases of the 2018 vintage were produced. 

What Wine Goes with Duck?

LaRue knew this slow-cooked duck recipe needed a wine strong enough to hold up to its decadent fall flavors, as well as to complement its sweetness. “There was quite a bit of sweetness,” she says. “Both from the pear and the confit.”

Enter the best wine with duck: the lush and piquant Sonoma Coast Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir. 

Duck confit, aka confit de canard, is an ages-old, classic French preparation that involves slow-cooking duck in its own fat until it’s impossibly tender. This famously luxurious duck dish—typically made with whole duck legs because of the hearty flavor of the dark meat—is known for its silky-smooth and succulent texture. 

Married with the sweetness of the pear and fennel, mild and creamy brie, and succulent puff pastry in this inventive recipe, the result is some seriously savory bites of bliss. (More of an appetizer or tapas-style offering than a stand-alone meal, these duck confit delights are ingeniously baked in mini muffin tins.)

Wine Pairing with Duck

Given the intensity of the meal, an equally intense red wine was in order—and according to LaRue, the Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir delivered. With ample acidity to balance both the naturally fatty rich meat of the confit duck breasts and the slight sweetness of the pear and roast fennel, this ruby-red Sonoma Coast blend proved to be a sublime selection for LaRue’s duck confit bites. 

In particular, LaRue praised the small-batch wine’s earthiness, which not only played well with the fennel but also with the richness of the brie and puff pastry. Rounding out the attributes that make this Pinot Noir the best pairing for duck confit is its long, full, and velvety finish. 

A timeless classic, Pinot Noir is beloved for its complexity, tantalizing aroma, smooth tannins, bold freshness, and finesse. And when it comes to Sonoma Coast Pinot Noirs, the Hillside Cuvee exceeds expectations. 

Sonoma County is widely recognized as producing some of the world’s highest-quality Pinot Noir wines. At the literal and figurative heart of the region, Halleck Vineyard has emerged as one of the best small wineries in Sonoma County thanks to its commitment to refining its cultivation and harvesting methods to perfection.

A 100 percent Pinot Noir that’s comparable to a fine French Burgundy, the Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast grapes is among its finest offerings and has been heralded as one of the country’s best, having earned Gold Awards from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition and Tasting Panel/Somm Journal 

Produced at the Halleck Vineyard Sonoma Winery in Sebastopol, this robust yet refined Pinot boasts a complex composition of earthy and fruity notes, including aromatic hints of brisk cranberry and vibrant pomegranate with a dash of white pepper, which makes it an exceptional wine to pair with duck.

If you don’t have time to order the Hillside Cuvee and need to pick something up right away, Meiomi 2017 Pinot Noir (375ML half-bottle) is an inexpensive, mass-produced but popular Pinot Noir brand that is actually quite smooth, despite its candy-sweet aroma. As an alternative, you might try a duck confit  Meiomi Pinot Noir pairing. But as a point of reference against other popular Pinots, not only did the Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir best the Meiomi Pinot in a taste test, but it also won out over the Belle Glos Pinot Noir and the La Crema Pinot Noir. 

Duck Wine Pairing

For their Inner Circle Wine Club members, Halleck Vineyard co-hosts dinners like these fairly often. Jennifer Halleck flew the wine out personally to pour at the event. This is how the Sebastopol winery fulfills its commitment to building community through wine.

A California wine club for people who are passionate about exceptional wine and equally exceptional company, membership in the Inner Circle comes with an abundance of benefits, including limited-edition bottles and access to barrel tasting and blending seminars, philanthropic community outreach opportunities, and premier wine and culinary vacations to Kenya, South Africa, Honduras, the Virgin Islands, Lake Tahoe, and other idyllic destinations. 

Membership in the Inner Circle Wine Club is not limited to lifelong oenophiles. Even newcomers to the world of viticulture who are just discovering the joy of the taste of wine, are welcome in the Inner Circle. It’s a true community for people who enjoy the best that life has to offer—including Halleck wines. 

More Food and Wine Pairings

When it comes to the best wine pairing for duck, the Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir is a consummate choice. And while this wonderful red wine is a match made in epicurean heaven with roasted duck, it also pairs well with a rack of lamb, and roasted or grilled chicken. And it has also been recognized by top sommeliers as the best wine with Salmon.

Because of its acidic lift, it’s equally at home on its own as it is with a meal. And the Hillside Cuvee Pinot Noir is just the start when it comes to Halleck Vineyard wines with the potential not only to complement foods but to elevate any meal into an unforgettable experience. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the art of food and Sonoma wine pairings, attending similar intimate Sebastopol wine tasting experiences like our exhilarating Harvest Party, and being part of a dynamic community of aesthetes, join the Halleck Vineyard Inner Circle Wine Club.

The Sebastopol estate winery – surrounded by a single-acre Pinot Noir vineyard whose maiden vintage in 2001 earned Best of Class at the Pinot Noir Summit – drew wine club members and their guests for a library tasting with local cheeses, live music, and a bountiful buffet lunch that included:

• Fresh-shucked Kumamoto and Miyagi oysters paired with 2021 Little Sister California Sauvignon Blanc, a startlingly complex white wine that offers the perfect blend of crisp acidity, tropical notes, and herbaceous green flavors. The Halleck Vineyard Sauv Blanc was judged “Best in Class” by Sunset Magazine and has won Gold and Double Gold medals at numerous competitions.
• Three Sons Cuvee Pinot Noir paired with Traeger smoked Filet Mignon. This Russian River Valley Pinot Noir – is lovingly named after their grown children Connor, Quinn, and Adam Halleck.
• House-made Baked Salmon over curried Quinoa with green onions and cilantro, accompanied by curry aioli paired with 2021 Little Sister California Sauvignon Blanc.
• Fresh Caprese salad, toasted butternut squash, and organic green salad with toasted walnuts, feta, and beets.
• The dessert was freshly baked chocolate chip, oatmeal, and snickerdoodle cookies from the Sebastopol Cookie Company.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted with a tasting of the signature 2021 “Not Your Mother’s” Dry White Zinfandel, the antithesis of the sweet White Zin from Sutter Home that was popular decades back.

This Dry White Zin wine features full floral notes and bright, crisp acids that blend with minerality on the mid-palate, offering flavors of subtle strawberry, rose petals, and other floral notes, with hints of apricot and zero sweetness.

Immediately following, club members and their wine harvest party guests were invited under the festive library wine tasting tent in the garden to sample an ensemble of past vintages poured from youngest to oldest, each of which is described by wine steward Harris Miner in these wine tasting notes:

Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, 2013 Three Sons Cuvee

The nose leads with dried cherry, thyme, Canela cinnamon, and dried leaves. Great roundness in the mouth with a lingering sweet spice on the finish. This vintage shows more earthiness than its predecessors, tipping its California hat toward Burgundy in the east. More info on this Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, 2013 Clone 828

This Gold Medal Winner at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition features tart pomegranate, cedar, and well-aged tobacco wafting out of the glass. The tobacco combines with a leathery richness on the palate. This wine has some life left in it yet, drink now or hold because this Pinot Noir will only continue to improve over the next 3-5 years. More info on 2013 Clone 828 Pinot Noir.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir (Magnum), 2012 Estate-Grown

Grown in the oldest publicly accessible Pinot Noir vineyard in Sebastopol, this beautifully expressive nose is filled with alpine herbs, brandied cherry, smoke, and white pepper. Guests visiting the Estate can walk the vineyards, a unique part of any Sonoma wine tour experience. The mouthfeel is rich and indulgent, with smooth tannins and a long finish that speak to the age of this wine. Yet it is still surprisingly bright for its age. Should only improve over the next 10-15 years. More info on the 2012 Halleck Vineyard Estate Grown Pinot Noir, made from the fabled one-acre vineyard surrounding the estate.

2010 The Farm Pinot Noir

This Pinot Summit Gold Medal Winner is surprisingly bright, given its age. Balanced acidity with orange zest and bright pomegranate. Black tea and toasty clove flavors abound, with a great minerality to finish. When this wine was made, the grapes were picked before sunrise, hand-sorted, and de-stemmed. They were cold-soaked for five days before going through whole-berry fermentation and receiving two punch-downs per day. This vintage is delicious now and will only improve over the next 10 years. Very limited reserves are available. More info on the 2010 Farm Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, 2008 Hillside Cuvee

Dried cranberry, damp earth, and a touch of Burgundy-like musk abound. The palate abounds with mushroomy forest floor, red fruits, and a certain rockiness that is the signature of this wine, even so, many years later. Hillside Cuvee is sourced from vineyards close to the Halleck Vineyard Estate, of similar elevation and character. More info on this Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.

Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, 2007 Hallberg Ranch

The final Pinot Noir in the library tasting series was the 2007 Hallberg Ranch. Red plum and raspberry, both slightly desiccated and concentrated, are the first aromas to greet you. The fruit mixes with dried herbs and earth to create a comforting impression of a root cellar. The finish is long and satisfying, like the last sip of a pot of tea. Drink now. More info on the 2007 Halberg Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.

A local New Orleans-style band, The Pulsators, and a local teen trio, Gas Money, performed live music as guests mingled, danced, and enjoyed sweeping Russian River Valley views from what is one of the most beautiful wineries for Sonoma Wine Tasting.

The average price of an entry-level Sonoma wine tasting was $25.75 before the lockdown on March 19, 2020. But since the lockdown was lifted on June 15, 2021, the average price of an entry-level wine tasting in Sonoma County has risen to $37. 

Wine tasting prices were up most in Healdsburg (+74%), followed by Santa Rosa (+70%), the City of Sonoma (+33%), Glen Ellen (+14%) and Sebastopol (+20%). Geyserville prices are down (-12%). Average (mean) pricing segmented by each market, as well as individual Sonoma wine tasting room profiles, are in the full report.

Before the lockdown, the average price of a wine tasting in Sonoma County ranged from $5 to $125 with the majority of wineries (44%) charging $15 to $20. Since the lockdown ended, the average price of a wine tasting in Sonoma County now ranges from $5 to $175, with the majority of wineries (32%) charging $25 to $30.

85% of Sonoma Wineries Reservation Only

To adhere to social distancing mandates and manage staffing requirements against visitor demand, the overwhelming majority of Sonoma wine tasting rooms are now reservation only. 

The largest share of Sonoma County wine tasting rooms that still accommodate walk-ins post lockdown are in Glen Ellen, with 7 out of 17 (44%) of tasting rooms welcoming guests without reservations, and in the City of Sonoma, with 11 out of 37 (30%) accepting walk-ins. 

Only 1 of the 20 Geyserville wine tasting rooms (5%) we surveyed currently accept walk-ins and only 11 of the 96 Healdsburg wine tasting rooms (11%) sampled accept guests without reservations. And only 6 out of the 53 wine tasting rooms in Sebastopol (11%) take walk-ins. Only 4 of the 24 wine tasting rooms in Santa Rosa (17%) accommodate guests without reservations. More statistics on which Sonoma wine tasting rooms are reservation only is available in the full report.

Quick Stats

Sonoma Wine Tasting Prices Post Lockdown

• Average Sonoma wine tasting room price was $25.75 before the lockdown
• 44% of Sonoma wine tasting rooms charged $15-20 before the lockdown

Sonoma Wine Tasting Prices Pre Lockdown

• Average Sonoma wine tasting room price is $37 after the lockdown
• 32% of Sonoma wine tasting rooms are charging $25-30 after the lockdown

To preserve public health and offset the risk of overloading hospitals as a result of the pandemic, on March 19, 2020, California Gov. Gavin Newsom imposed a stay-at-home order that lasted 453 days and came to be known as the “lockdown.” During that period, California travel and tourism spending dropped 53% from $144.8B in 2019 to $68.4B in 2020, according to Visit California, a nonprofit that promotes Golden State tourism. The lockdown mandate was lifted on June 15, 2021.

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For small Sonoma wineries – many of which have no retail distribution and rely on their wine tasting rooms to acquire wine club members – the lockdown was an existential crisis. To stay afloat, many Sonoma wineries were forced to pivot to ecommerce and Zoom enabled virtual wine tastings overnight.

Pricing Durability

Inflation in the wine business has a durability that is unique to the hospitality sector. Unlike a restaurant, which can adjust prices in real time, winemaking costs are front loaded years in advance. Because of the aging process, wines made this year won’t be sold for years in the future. So regardless of what happens with prices in the future, current labor and transportation costs will be carried forward into cost of goods sold.

The full study includes market profiles for 6 Sonoma cities, 3 Sonoma wineries and the research methodology.

Over the last three years, two of the top ten costliest fires in the US – The Glass Fire and CZU Lightning Complex Fire were in Northern California, according to the Insurance Information Institute. The Camp Fire was the most destructive in the state’s history with 153.3 thousand acres burned, 18.8 thousand structures destroyed and 85 people killed. California is now the most fire prone state, with 9,260 fires and 2.2 million acres burned in 2021.

A warmer, drier climate means that vegetation burns hotter and faster. Farmers in the area which straddles North Marin and South Sonoma – known as the Petaluma Gap – are particularly at risk of having their crops ruined by smoke taint, since fires west of the Sonoma Mountains can quickly feed fresh smoke into the Gap’s wind tunnel. Grapes don’t need to burn to spoil. Smoke less than 24 hours old can permeate the skins of red wine grapes and destroy entire crops.

Defined by wind which pulls the coastal fog through a gap in the mountains at Bodega Bay, air flows inland to the Sonoma Mountains and gets deflected south to the San Pablo Bay, making the terrior ideal for growing cool climate grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In fact, Gap’s Crown Vineyard supplies grapes to Kosta Browne for one of their most celebrated Pinot Noirs and lauded Sebastopol winery Halleck Vineyard sources their clone 828 Pinot Noir grapes from Black Knight Vineyards on Taylor Mountain.

But the Petaluma Gap is feeling the impact of climate change. Ms. Dorsey is a witness. She has been at McEvoy ranch since the very beginning, participating in the land prep with her own two hands. Now, 22 years later, she runs the ranch’s day-to-day operations, including their wine tasting room, the McEvoy Ranch Outlet store in downtown Petaluma, and their online store. 

Initially, McEvoy Ranch has a larger viticulture operation. But today, their olive orchards might also be seen as a hedge against a warming planet.

McEvoy Ranch is located on a sprawling 550 acre farmland just over the Marin side of the Petaluma Gap. Since 2006, they have maintained two different vineyards. One specializes in Pinot Noir, while the other tract is split evenly between Syrah and Montepulciano. All said and done, they produce a variety of different labels in-house, although their vineyard operations have changed radically. 

In recent years, McEvoy has turned their attention from viticulture to winemaking. They lease their vineyards to growers and source grapes from them and other local farms, such as the neighboring Pacheco Ranch which dry farms and rare AXR1 rootstock for Cabernet Sauvignon, which is rare outside of Napa. “The limiting factors for us in terms of production are water, of course, as well as smoke taint which has destroyed numerous crops,” she says.

While McEvoy’s shift away from viticulture is the result of numerous factors—tough, clay-like soil, the drought, unpredictable weather, and a pronounced labor shortage— the threat of climate change is always lurking. 

Unfortunately, climate change is something that all California’s growers will have to contend with in the coming years. Smoke damage emanating from regional wildfires will inevitably lead to loss of plant and wildlife. As the planet warms, water evaporates faster and vegetation gets drier.   

As a result, Ms. Dorsey and the team at McEvoy have hedged their bet by investing in their halo product: olive oil. Olive trees excel at growing in dry, arid climates. They need little water to survive and can even thrive in desert-like environments and Ms. Dorsey is very optimistic about the future of olive growing in California. 

Aside from their drought-resistant qualities, olive trees are also smoke resistant, which means wildfire smoke doesn’t taint their flavor as it does with grapes. “It really is an extraordinary product that can be grown on marginal soils in a high heat environment,” she says. 

Ms. Dorsey is also an advocate of the environmental benefits that go along with olive oil production and consumption. For example, olive oil has a small carbon footprint because it is nonperishable and does not require refrigeration. And the benefit of buying olive oil from a local, small producer like McEvoy is product integrity. Large-scale manufacturers are less than honest when it comes to the labeling of products. 

Far too often manufacturers will label diluted, mixed, or processed oils as “extra-virgin” even when they’re not. California in particular is fighting a battle with manufacturers who label their oils as Napa Valley products without the proper pedigree. It’s a battle they are winning, thanks in part to the artisans at McEvoy Ranch. 

So when is the best time to visit wine country? With climate change approaching, the sooner the better. While there may be some grapes that thrive in a warmer climate, with the escalating pace of climate change, if you wait too long, wine country could someday become olive country.

Either way, McEvoy Ranch is ready.