Winemaker Steven Canter arrived at Quivira three years ago from Torbreck Vintners in Barossa Valley, Australia, Canter is an American who had come to Sonoma in a roundabout way: first inspired by Kermit Lynch’s earthy, terroir driven imports from France, then wandering the world looking for the vinous meaning of life while picking up jobs as a cellarer in California, Oregon, Italy and South Africa. (Randy Caparoso)He passionately believes pro-active organic and Biodynamic farming leads to more vibrant, better tasting fruit. He works closely with Quivira’s vineyard crew manager of 20 years, Tony Castellanos, to capture the truest expression of each varietal from Quivira's vineyards.
Wine Creek Ranch is 100% Demeter Certified Biodynamic and organic. There are 6.5 acres of greanche at Wine Creek Ranch. All the valley floor sites are a dynamic mix of clay and loam. This ranch is bisected by Wine Creek and bordered on the North by Dry Creek. Quivira is Certified Biodynamic, meaning that they go a step beyond organi
c. Factors such as rhythm of the seasons and natural fertilizers come into play; indeed, the methods for making compost read more like recipes than a chemistry textbook. Canter pointed out that while this is the way they feel they can best make wine and take care of the land, he doesn't think that such methods should be forced on anyone. (Benito’s Wine Reviews)Quivira uses a 55kW solar electric system to supply 100% of their energy. Their water usage is greatly reduced by using a steam cleansing machine that uses 98% less water than traditional methods for barrel cleansing and soaking. Quivira keeps honeybees on the property to pollinate the orchards and vegetables.
Tasting Notes: Fruit comes out in full force, mixed in a bit of spice. Freshly picked fruit, a bit of earth, most
ly neutral oak.Aromas: fruit-forward with hints of a touch of strawberry and cherries
Body: soft & medium
Color: Vibrant red tones with a touch of brick
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2 casesFrom their website: “At Quivira, we believe the greatest wines are first grown in the vineyard and then expressed in the winemaking. For this reason we have tied vineyard management directly to the winemaking process. Our winemaker is also our vineyard manager, and thus has the direct responsibility for managing the quality of the grapes that will ultimately determine the quality of the wine.
Since the Wendts first took control of the vineyards in 1981, the Quivira Estate has been farmed with an emphasis on sustainability and minimal impact. The Kights have expanded this commitment to include a partnership with Trout Unlimited and the Department of Fish and Game to complete the full restoration of Wine Creek, and to expand the commitment for organic farming. The quality of our wines are reflected through the preserving of the natural macrobiotic health and balance found within the vineyard environment as a whole. Through the dedicated and disciplined practice of the founding Biodynamic principles of Sustainability, Commitment, Regulating, and Attention, Quivira continues its long tradition of investing first in the vineyards in order to create truly great wines.”
Eat with: grilled rabbit roulade, carrot purée, haricot verts, baby carrots, roasted shallots & thyme jus.
Website: http://www.quivirawine.com/
