ROWEN Wine Company's Impressive Achievement
ROWEN Wine Company, known for its ultra-luxury wines, proudly announces an extraordinary milestone in its journey. Recently, the esteemed The SOMM Journal awarded three of its high-elevation wines perfect 100-point scores, elevating the winery's status in the elite world of viniculture. This recognition shines on the 2018 "600R", 2019 "600R", and 2019 "600L" vintages, a significant achievement for a brand that has quickly made its mark since its inception.
The Significance of Perfect Scores
A Unique Milestone for RSWE
This accolade is particularly remarkable as it marks the first time a wine from Rodney Strong Wine Estates (RSWE) has achieved such high acclaim in its 65-year history. Current owner Tom Klein, a third-generation farmer, acquired the winery 35 years ago and has fostered a legacy of quality and innovation in winemaking.
Understanding the Awards
The scoring by The SOMM Journal illuminates the distinct profiles and exceptional quality of ROWEN wines. The “600” in the wine names refers to the 600-liter French oak barrels utilized for fermentation and aging. Each wine reflects a meticulous crafting process, with the “R” indicating blends from the Right Bank, primarily Merlot and Cabernet Franc, while the “L” signifies the Left Bank, focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Terroir of Cooley Ranch
ROWEN Wine Company is rooted in the unique terroir of The Cooley Ranch, a historic vineyard nestled high in the northern reaches of Sonoma County. The ranch’s red metamorphic soils and elevation above the fog line yield grapes that are rich in flavor and complexity.
The Role of Climate and Soil
Justin Seidenfeld, ROWEN's winemaker, emphasizes that the high elevation of The Cooley Ranch contributes significantly to the wines’ intense flavor profiles. According to him, “The Cooley Ranch yields grapes with exceptional concentration and ripe tannins, leading to astonishing wines that reflect their environment.”
Commitment to Craftsmanship
Since its establishment in 2019, ROWEN has focused on establishing a legacy of premium wines. Seidenfeld has been empowered by Klein to pursue innovation, highlighted by the transformation of an older storage building into a state-of-the-art winery dedicated to Cooley Ranch grapes. This facility, dubbed “The Boneyard,” showcases specially designed fermenters aimed at optimizing wine production.
Revitalizing the RSWE Vineyards
This project is part of a larger vision to enhance RSWE's vineyards, including iconic sites like Alexander’s Crown and Rockaway. Starting in 2018, a significant replanting initiative improved the quality and sustainability of vineyard operations.
Exclusive Limited Production
ROWEN wines are produced in limited batches, with fewer than 800 bottles crafted from each vintage. Each bottle is hand-numbered, creating a sense of exclusivity. The meticulous attention to detail ensures that while each wine may have unique flavor notes, they maintain consistent structure and complexity.
The Pinnacle of ROWEN’s Portfolio
Seidenfeld refers to the 100-point scorers as the pinnacle of the ROWEN portfolio, describing them as exemplifying what the brand stands for: quality, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the land. “When you earn a perfect score, it’s a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in the winemaking process,” states Seidenfeld. This achievement reflects not only the winery's ambition but also a commitment to its loyal customers who appreciate fine wines.
Upcoming Releases and Reviews
Future issues of The SOMM Journal will feature additional ROWEN wines that have received high praise: the 2018 and 2019 “2040” Cabernet Sauvignon, both earning 99 points, and the 2018 Cooley Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon at 98 points. These accolades further reinforce ROWEN's reputation as a prominent name in quality winemaking.
Looking Ahead
As ROWEN Wine Company moves forward, they remain committed to crafting wines that leave a lasting impression. Their goal is not only to produce remarkable wines but also to create memories that will resonate with wine lovers for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What scores did ROWEN Wine Company achieve?
ROWEN Wine Company received three perfect scores of 100 points from The SOMM Journal for its 2018 “600R”, 2019 “600R”, and 2019 “600L” vintages.
What is the significance of the '600' in the wine names?
The '600' denotes the use of 600-liter French oak barrels used for fermentation and aging in the winemaking process.
Who is the winemaker at ROWEN Wine Company?
Justin Seidenfeld is the winemaker at ROWEN Wine Company, responsible for its innovative and high-quality wine production.
Where is The Cooley Ranch located?
The Cooley Ranch is located in Sonoma County, known for its unique terroir, which significantly influences the flavor and quality of the wines.
What is the philosophy behind ROWEN's winemaking?
ROWEN's philosophy focuses on creating exceptional wines that reflect the terroir, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainable practices.
