Poco a Poco Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley 2022

The Spanish phrase "Poco a Poco," meaning "little by little," represents the core philosophy that guides farmer and winemaker Luke Bass in crafting his wines. This patient approach permeates every aspect of viticulture and winemaking. Whether it's allowing vine blocks additional years to mature up their stakes, hand-selecting each grape cluster individually, or waiting extra months for barrel fermentation to complete naturally, the poco a poco mindset prevails. Exceptional farming and mindful winemaking demand patience rather than haste, making this philosophy essential to embrace.

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon originates from Forchini Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley, where three-decade-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines thrive under organic farming practices. The wine underwent spontaneous fermentation using indigenous yeasts and matured in seasoned French oak barrels. Following the minimal intervention approach, this Cabernet Sauvignon was bottled without fining or filtration, with only a minimal sulfur addition at bottling. The resulting wine achieves an excellent harmony between mature and bright fruit characteristics, complemented by earthy, savory elements.

Sonoma County stands as one of California's most prestigious and diverse wine regions, stretching from the Pacific Coast inland through rolling hills and valleys just north of San Francisco. This sprawling wine country encompasses over 1,800 square miles and contains 18 distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), each with unique microclimates and terroir characteristics that contribute to the region's exceptional winemaking reputation.

The county's winemaking history dates back to the 1850s when European immigrants, particularly from Italy and Germany, began planting vineyards in the fertile valleys. Today, Sonoma County is home to more than 425 wineries and over 60,000 acres of vineyards, making it one of the most significant wine-producing regions in the United States. The area's proximity to San Francisco, combined with its stunning natural beauty and world-class wines, has made it a premier destination for wine tourism.

Sonoma County's geography creates an ideal environment for viticulture, with the Pacific Ocean providing cooling influences that moderate temperatures throughout the growing season. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal fog plays a crucial role in many areas, particularly in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast, where morning mist keeps temperatures cool and extends the growing season, allowing grapes to develop complex flavors while maintaining crisp acidity.

The county's diverse topography includes coastal plains, river valleys, and mountainous terrain, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,600 feet. This variation creates numerous microclimates and soil types, from well-draining gravelly soils in Dry Creek Valley to volcanic ash soils in Bennett Valley. The Russian River winds through several AVAs, providing natural irrigation and creating the famous fog corridor that influences many of the region's most celebrated vineyards.

Sonoma County is renowned for producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, particularly in cooler coastal areas like the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast. The Russian River Valley has gained international recognition for its elegant, food-friendly Pinot Noirs that showcase the region's cool climate and diverse soils. Dry Creek Valley is famous for its old-vine Zinfandel, with many vineyards containing century-old vines that produce intensely flavored, complex wines. The Alexander Valley excels in Bordeaux varietals, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, while the Sonoma Valley produces outstanding examples of both red and white wines.

The region's commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices sets it apart from many other wine regions. Many Sonoma County wineries have embraced biodynamic farming, cover cropping, and water conservation techniques. The Sonoma County Winegrowers organization has implemented comprehensive sustainability programs, with goals to become the world's first 100% sustainable wine region by 2030.

Sonoma County's wine industry encompasses everything from small, family-owned boutique wineries to larger established producers, creating a diverse range of wine styles and price points. Many wineries focus on estate-grown fruit, emphasizing terroir expression and minimal intervention winemaking techniques. The region's winemakers are known for their innovative approaches while respecting traditional methods, often combining old-world techniques with modern technology.

The county's tourism infrastructure includes numerous tasting rooms, from intimate family estates to grand facilities, along with farm-to-table restaurants, luxury resorts, and charming bed-and-breakfasts. The Sonoma County wine country offers visitors the opportunity to experience not just exceptional wines, but also artisanal food, beautiful landscapes, and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that defines Northern California wine culture. Events throughout the year, including harvest festivals and barrel tastings, showcase the region's wines and celebrate its rich agricultural heritage.