Biodynamic, Single Vineyard ‘The Butler’ 2020
Following years of drought throughout California, the 2020 vintage brought much-needed winter rains. April marked the first bud break, with a subsequently mild growing season ushering in an early harvest. Reflecting thoughtful farming practices, our biodynamically grown fruit delivered a notable depth of flavor in 2020. Complex flavors of black currant, plums, black pepper, and mushrooms are layered over herbaceous notes of oregano and bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannins and a lingering finish. The Butler will continue developing layers of character with an additional five to ten years of cellaring.
Club Price: $48.00
“This single vineyard blend was inspired by France’s Rhone Valley and merged with our Mendocino home. This ranch is seriously breathtaking and we really try to make a wine to do justice to this incredible ranch.”
Bob Blue, Founding Winemaker
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Testimonial
“This single vineyard blend was inspired by France’s Rhone Valley and merged with our Mendocino home. This ranch is seriously breathtaking and we really try to make a wine to do justice to this incredible ranch.”
Bob Blue, Founding Winemaker
Awards
The Tasting Panel, March/April 2022
The blend of 63% Petite Sirah, 33% Syrah, 3% Grenache, 1% Viognier comes in at 15.3% ABV. This single vineyard Biodynamic estate cuvée is sourced from ridge-top knolls exceeding 2,000 feet in elevation. Well-built and dynamic; this power-driven with chewy tannins. A wave of dried violets and espresso march through a field of spiced blueberries, layered with chocolate cake and graphite. Aged for 18 months in 100% (35% new) French oak. – Meridith May
James Suckling, December 2021 issue
Aromas of dark plums, mulberries, blackcurrants, spearmint and chocolate orange. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Structured, with a compact core of black fruit and a chewy yet fresh finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Try from 2023. – December 8, 2021
James Suckling, December 2020
Fresh and funky nose of geraniums, raspberries, licorice and caraway seeds. Intriguing hints of tiger balm. It’s medium-bodied with crisp acidity and sleek, tight tannins. Juicy fruit and soil flavors. Refreshingly moreish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now.
The Tasting Panel, September 2020
This Syrah-based wine with Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Zinfandel was sourced from a certified Biodynamic vineyard and aged 24 months in French oak. It’s liquid elegance, with a base of animale, fennel, and black pepper underneath bright yet savory notes of plum and violets. With balanced acidity and an evolving personality that continues to open up, this Butler is of great service to the palate.
Wine Enthusiast, September 2019 Issue
Made by Winemaker Jeff Cichocki from biodynamic grapes grown in the Butler Ranch Vineyard, this opens with concentrated aromas of ripe blueberry and spice that move the full-bodied palate with equally focused fruit flavors. A velvety, lightly gripping texture and good fruit concentration help bring on a lingering finish.
Wine & Spirits, December 2018 Issue
“This vineyard, west of Highway 101 near Ukiah, rises from 1,700 to 2,200 feet with east and north-facing exposures. It produced a floral Syrah in 2013, which Bob Blue blended with 20 percent of other varieties, including Mourvedre, Grenache and zinfandel. It has the fresh scent of roses and the deep purple tones of salted plums. Tense and spicy, with a clean line in the end, this is a delicious match for salumi.” – Josh Greene
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Awards
95 Points, 2019 Vintage, Tasting Panel
The Tasting Panel, March/April 2022
The blend of 63% Petite Sirah, 33% Syrah, 3% Grenache, 1% Viognier comes in at 15.3% ABV. This single vineyard Biodynamic estate cuvée is sourced from ridge-top knolls exceeding 2,000 feet in elevation. Well-built and dynamic; this power-driven with chewy tannins. A wave of dried violets and espresso march through a field of spiced blueberries, layered with chocolate cake and graphite. Aged for 18 months in 100% (35% new) French oak. – Meridith May91 Points, 2019 Vintage, James SucklingJames Suckling, December 2021 issue
Aromas of dark plums, mulberries, blackcurrants, spearmint and chocolate orange. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Structured, with a compact core of black fruit and a chewy yet fresh finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Try from 2023. – December 8, 202192 Points, 2014 VintageJames Suckling, December 2020
Fresh and funky nose of geraniums, raspberries, licorice and caraway seeds. Intriguing hints of tiger balm. It’s medium-bodied with crisp acidity and sleek, tight tannins. Juicy fruit and soil flavors. Refreshingly moreish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now.95 Points, 2016 VintageThe Tasting Panel, September 2020
This Syrah-based wine with Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Zinfandel was sourced from a certified Biodynamic vineyard and aged 24 months in French oak. It’s liquid elegance, with a base of animale, fennel, and black pepper underneath bright yet savory notes of plum and violets. With balanced acidity and an evolving personality that continues to open up, this Butler is of great service to the palate.93 Points, 2014 VintageWine Enthusiast, September 2019 Issue
Made by Winemaker Jeff Cichocki from biodynamic grapes grown in the Butler Ranch Vineyard, this opens with concentrated aromas of ripe blueberry and spice that move the full-bodied palate with equally focused fruit flavors. A velvety, lightly gripping texture and good fruit concentration help bring on a lingering finish.
93 Points, 2013 Vintage, Top 100 Wines of 2018Wine & Spirits, December 2018 Issue
“This vineyard, west of Highway 101 near Ukiah, rises from 1,700 to 2,200 feet with east and north-facing exposures. It produced a floral Syrah in 2013, which Bob Blue blended with 20 percent of other varieties, including Mourvedre, Grenache and zinfandel. It has the fresh scent of roses and the deep purple tones of salted plums. Tense and spicy, with a clean line in the end, this is a delicious match for salumi.” – Josh Greene
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