Occidental, Pinot Noir, Freestone-Occidental, Sonoma Coast 2020

Occidental is the highly-lauded project of famed winemaker Steve Kistler and his family. Steve is most well-known for his eponymous label, Kistler Vineyards, which has been dedicated to making world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from California’s north coast for over 30 years.

While Steve remains CEO of Kistler Vineyards, his desire to focus solely on Pinot Noir was the impetus behind creating Occidental. Situated just 4 miles from the Ocean in western Sonoma’s Bodega Headlands, Occidental currently has 85 acres of primarily Pinot Noir planted to a proprietary selection from Grand Cru Vosne-Romanée clones on Riparia Gloire and 101‐14 rootstocks. The vineyards benefit from an ideal south-facing aspect (not shared by neighboring sites), as well as the Petaluma Gap’s cold, windy climate. In fact, the area rarely sees temperatures over 80 degrees. In short, it is a wonderland for Pinot Noir.

Similar to his philosophy at Kistler Vineyards, Steve embraces a “less is more” approach to viticulture and winemaking at Occidental. Steve’s ultimate goal was to reduce the size of the operation and increase the level of attention in order to make Pinot Noir that is rich with flavor, but not overly extracted or tannic. The vineyards are farmed with great skill and commitment by many of the same men and women who have worked alongside Steve at Kistler. In the winery, Steve works with his original cellar crew, many of whom have worked with him for twenty-five years.