The Final Sonatera Release
5-Year Vertical of Sonatera MonoClone® Pinot Noir
2013 – 2014 – 2015 – 2016 – 2017
Where It All Began
When we started Soliste in 2005, the stars aligned for us to work with the stunning vineyard owned by Beth’s sister, Debbie, and her husband, Marne. That fateful year, we made our first Sonatera Pinot Noir from the family vineyard (only 143 cases were produced, that’s it!). We believed its unique site would enable us to craft wines with a style that might satisfy our infatuation for the great Burgundies that we love.
Our fascination with the great red Burgundies comes from the singular aromatics and complexities that are born in unique vineyards and microclimates but a few kilometers apart. It is why we undertook the challenge and risk of focusing on each specific clone of Pinot Noir that is best in harmony with each vineyard site – our Single Vineyard, Single Clone, and Single Cooperage wines – MonoClone®.
Sonatera is one of those unique vineyard sites that truly exemplifies the Soliste philosophy and style. The hilltop vineyard has three different exposures, facing north, south, and west. This geography funnels brisk marine winds over the vines reducing vigor, extending the ripening period of the grapes, and allowing expressive aromatics to develop into layers of complexity and elegance. Once you have tasted Sonatera Pinot Noir, you will always be able to identify its origins, a sense of place…
The Final Sonatera Release
In May, we shared the sad news of Beth’s untimely passing (read here). If not for Beth, Sonatera Pinot Noir and, indeed, Soliste would not exist. Claude, Elisabeth, and I decided now is the time to announce the retirement of the Sonatera label. This vertical of Sonatera Pinot Noir, specifically the 2017 Vintage, will be our final release of Sonatera. We complete the six-pack with 2022 Soleil Rouge Rosé de Pinot Noir – perfect for Summer. Soleil Rouge is sunshine in a bottle, and Beth loved being in the sunshine with her family, friends, and doggies.
The Soliste Family and our First Vintage of Sonatera in Barrel
(note the glasses are empty and Claude and Don both have hair!)
Our 2024 June Release
To commemorate the wine that is Soliste’s rootstock, we are offering this final vertical of Sonatera MonoClone Pinot Noir.
| Sonatera MonoClone Pinot Noir 5-Year Vertical Where it all began, circa 2005. Deep, concentrated, earthy, spiced, with silky weight and infinite finishes. The Final Release. One bottle each of the following: 2013 Sonatera 2014 Sonatera 2015 Sonatera 2016 Sonatera 2017 Sonatera 2022 Soleil Rouge Rosé de Pinot Noir Extremely Limited – Only |