2011 was a challenging vintage on California’s North Coast. We had similar conditions to 2010, with a cool, wet spring, and above-average rainfall into June. Rainfall during bloom resulted in a poor set, thinning the crop to less than 15% of normal. The light crop was a blessing in the cool, late season, as a light crop tends to ripen more quickly. A series of mid-October rain events presented further challenges, bringing harvest to a rapid close. The resultant wines reflect the cooler vintage, with lively acidity and moderate alcohol levels, favoring finesse and elegance over power.