Kistler Vineyards

A Burgundian Philosophy

From the outset, Kistler sought to prove that Californian terroir could produce wines with the finesse and complexity of the great wines of the Côte de Beaune or the Côte de Nuits.

• Clonal selection: THE domaine uses a unique "heritage" Chardonnay clone, imported from Burgundy in the early 20th century, which produces small berries with high concentration and high acidity.

• Micro-terroirs: Kistler is famous for its single-vineyard winemaking. domaine produces more than a dozen different Chardonnay cuvées, each expressing the specificity of a single vineyard.

Location and Terroirs

THE domaine is not limited to a single site, but operates a mosaic of vineyards located in the cooler areas of the county Sonoma :

• Russian River Valley: Known for its "Goldridge" silt soils, providing texture and elegance.

• Sonoma Coast: Sites closer to the Pacific Ocean, where fog and maritime freshness allow for slow ripening and vibrant acidity.

• Carneros: On the southern border of Sonoma and Napa, ideal for more structured wines.

Iconic Wines

Production is limited and highly prized by collectors (often sold via a very selective allocation list).

• Les Noisetiers (Chardonnay): Probably their best-known vintage, a blend from several coastal vineyards, renowned for its buttery notes, toasted hazelnut and minerality.

• McCrea Vineyard & Dutton Ranch: Historical references for Chardonnay.

• Cuvée Cathleen & Cuvée Elizabeth: Prestigious vintages (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir respectively) from the best plots of domaine.

Style and Evolution

For a long time, the Kistler style was associated with a certain power and opulence (much appreciated by Robert Parker). However, under the impetus of the winemaker Jason Kesner (who succeeded Steve Kistler), the domaine has evolved towards greater restraint:

• Winemaking: Exclusive use of indigenous yeasts, fermentation in French oak barrels and aging on lees.

• Current profile: Wines are now sought after for their balance between a rich texture and an almost crystalline saline tension.