Iron Horse Vineyards
Russian Cuvée 2019
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
Russian Cuvée has multiple layers of meaning. Originally named for the historic Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings in 1985, it also refers to the vineyard’s unique location in the Russian River Valley. The Russian Cuvée is the “richest” in the Iron Horse line up, though it is still technically brut-level dry. A perfect toasting wine, served at White House State Dinners for six consecutive Presidential Administrations, it boasts aromas of caramel apple, nutmeg and orange zest, flavors of ripe red apple, lime, brioche and brown sugar on the palate. It is equally comfortable at the end of the meal with dessert as at the start of the meal for a toast.
Vineyard
The Iron Horse estate is in the heart of Green Valley’s cool and foggy climate, 13 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The certified sustainable estate features 160 acres under vine, planted exclusively to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir across a patchwork of gentle, rolling hills. Each of the 39 blocks has been planted with site-specific rootstock and clonal selections, enabling Iron Horse to farm, harvest, and vinify each block separately. The predominant soil-type is called “Gold Ridge”, a sandy loam that has excellent drainage and is perfectly, inherently balanced, making it one of the most coveted soil types, especially for growing Pinot Noir.
Winemaking
Grapes are hand harvested in the chilly fog of early morning, and gently pressed as whole clusters yielding base wines of great delicacy. A long, cool ferment at 62° to 65° F retains vibrant fruit esters. Individual lots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were selected for their shy nose and clear varietal character. After 3 years aging on the yeast, they now exhibit wonderful complexity and creaminess. The dosage for this wine is 16 mls of BDN LEX, 2mls 2019 Rued Chardonnay, and 2ml of 2019 Gold Ridge Pinot Noir. The Final blend is 67% Pinot Noir and 33% Chardonnay.
Tasting Note
Lemon Meringue on the nose with a touch of brioche. The front palate has flavors of blood orange zest followed by good texture and flavors of spiced poached pear with mid-palate ending with a long finish.
Suggested Food Pairing
Delicious with savory morning pastries, BLTs, blue cheese, and a range of desserts from crème brulée to rhubarb and raspberry tarts, to strawberry shortcakes.
Color
White
Grape Varieties
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Appellation
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
Farming
Sustainable
Alcohol
13.5%
Suggested Retail Price
$57
Reviews
“Richly structured yet refreshing and lively"
Wine Spectator - September 13, 2023
“Richly structured yet refreshing and lively, with lemon tart, nectarine, fresh brioche and spicy ginger accents that finish on a vibrant note." - T.F. 9/23
Trade Materials
Iron Horse Vineyards Russian Cuvée 2019 Tech Sheet
Added February 22, 2023 -
Iron Horse Vineyards Russian River Cuvée 2019 Shelf Talker
Added September 14, 2023 -
Other Wines by this Producer
Audrey Chardonnay
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
They say ingredient x in a wine is the people behind it – a saying that certainly holds true for this delicious first release of Audrey Chardonnay. It mirrors the beauty and grace of Iron Horse Co-Founder Audrey Sterling. Multi-faceted, brilliant, and memorable. This is a tribute wine, made with love and admiration.
Chardonnay
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
This pure Chardonnay is a natural beauty that showcases the extraordinary qualities of the Green Valley area. It has a crackling brightness, with stone and citrus fruits on the nose joined by an appealing minerality and spice that drive a long finish. The best of both worlds, this bottling combines the tension between concentrated fruit and the raciness of the best Chablis, with a kiss of California sunshine providing fruit and supple texture: it is impossible to put down.
Classic Vintage Brut
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
The flagship of the estate, this wine shows everything the family strives to accomplish. The quality and finesse strike memory bells that say “Champagne,” while the flavors are unmistakably Sonoma County, Russian River, Green Valley and most distinctly Iron Horse. Delightful and complex rising dough, orange marmalade and baked apple aromas lead to an exquisitely balanced palate with flavors of ripe red apple, mandarin orange and hazelnut. The complexity of flavors and textures are perhaps only overshadowed by the sheer pleasure of enjoyment.
Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
Ocean Reserve is a special, limited edition, vintage Blanc de Blancs, created in partnership with National Geographic. Iron Horse dedicated its Blanc de Blancs to National Geographic’s Ocean Initiative as a nod to the Pacific Ocean, which is the engine behind the fog and cool, coastal influence in the Green Valley; $4 per bottle sold goes to establishing marine protected areas and supporting sustainable fishing practices around the globe. The Ocean Reserve’s racy lime and tangerine notes, saline acidity, and beautiful creamy finish, conjures images of the ocean itself and pairs flawlessly with all manner of seafood.
Wedding Cuvée
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
The irresistible Wedding Cuvée has witnessed countless special moments since its inception in 1980, served at engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day celebrations. Iron Horse’s play on a Blanc de Noirs, this wine features extremely expressive and fruit forward Pinot Noir lots blended with just a touch of steely Chardonnay to add a firm acid backbone. A romantic tinge of pink in the glass hints at the character of the Pinot Noir in this cuvée, and raspberry and nutmeg aromas on the nose are followed by juicy stone fruit, lively blood orange, and red berry flavors that are held seamlessly together with refined and delicate bubbles. Dangerously easy to drink.
Gold Ridge Pinot Noir
Green Valley, Russian River Valley, California
The Gold Ridge is three clones of Pinot Noir selected from four excellent sites on the estate to create this complex and
elegant blend. The unifying factor is our highly prized Gold Ridge soil, among the most coveted, especially for Pinot
Noir.
