Joseph Phelps Vineyards Launches Exclusive Vineyard-Designate Wines from Freestone Winery
Freestone, California – Renowned Napa Valley winery, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, is making waves by introducing its first vineyard-designate offerings from the Freestone estate. This groundbreaking release will make the wines available for purchase in select restaurants and fine wine retailers across the United States, breaking from the traditional allocation model that previously limited access.
Joseph Phelps Vineyards has a longstanding reputation for producing some of the finest wines in Napa Valley. The new vineyard-designate wines from Freestone Winery include selections from the estate's Pastorale and Quarter Moon vineyards. These two sites, boasting unique terroirs shaped by the coastal fog and ancient marine sediments of the Sonoma Coast, set the stage for a distinctive winemaking experience. The distinct attributes of the Freestone terroir – from the cooling winds to the mineral-rich soils – result in wines that capture the essence of the vineyard sites.
Winemaker Justin Ennis, who has been at the helm of crafting these singular wines, emphasizes the importance of respecting the land and allowing the fruit to speak for itself. "Everything begins in the vineyard. Through hands-on farming and careful attention, we work to bring in fruit that's expressive and healthy. In the cellar, I practice minimal intervention winemaking to allow the site, varietals, clones, and vintage to shine through," says Ennis. The focus on terroir leads to wines that are not just a product of their environment but also reflections of the intricate balance between nature and winemaking expertise.
The introduction of the Freestone wines represents the realization of a vision that began in the 1990s when Joseph Phelps and his son set out to find an exceptional location for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay production. Many of their peers doubted the potential of the Freestone area due to its cool climate and rugged terrain. However, the Phelps family saw an opportunity for excellence where others did not. Today, Freestone is recognized as a cool-climate partner to the Napa Valley portfolio, showcasing purity and precision in its wines.
The wines available from this inaugural release include:
- - 2024 Freestone Pastorale Chardonnay priced at $120, which presents an oceanic character accentuated by bright minerality.
- - 2023 Freestone Pastorale Pinot Noir at $125, boasting elegant mid-weight structure and an impressive finish.
- - 2023 Freestone Quarter Moon Pinot Noir, also priced at $125, celebrated for its savory profile and aging potential.
- - 2023 Freestone Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, available for $77, offering a fruit-forward experience that highlights the cool-climate elegance of the region.
These wines, which are produced in limited quantities, became available on May 1st and are now exciting wine enthusiasts and collectors alike. Wine lovers seeking a taste of California's rugged coastal viticulture can find these selections at select wine shops and dining venues. For more information, consumers can visit Freestone Vineyards' website or follow their Instagram account for updates on future releases.
As Joseph Phelps Vineyards continues to honor its legacy while pushing the boundaries of Californian winemaking, they strive to preserve both the heritage of their founder and the integrity of the land. With this latest release from Freestone Winery, the winery is poised to redefine expectations, achieving a balance between tradition and innovative viticulture that wine aficionados are sure to appreciate.