Mononi Vineyard

Russian River Valley

Pinot Noir

Paul and Amy Mononi’s estate vineyard, located in the heart of the middle reaches of the Russian River Valley, is a shining reflection of their outstanding stewardship. At the intersection of River Road and Olivet Lane, the Mononi Vineyard was planted 1995 to the classic Dijon clones 113 and 115. Ideal soil composition of loamy clay and loose gravel as well as a constant slop are the framework for the five-acre vineyard. Properly paired soil, rootstock, and clones combine to provide a site that is naturally low yielding (2.5 tons per acre on average). Clusters are small with tiny berries, which allows for maximum flavor development year in and year out. Working directly with Paul and Amy, we meticulously maintain and farm this vineyard to produce grapes of outstanding quality and intense flavor development. Whether we are guarding against frost damage in the spring, leaf pulling and fruit thinning during the growing season or cane pruning during the winter, we never lose sight of our goal to grow and produce wines of the highest quality that show individual character and sense of place.

Pinot Gris

The Mononi’s second vineyard, located at the intersection of Guerneville Highway and Willowside is a wonderful location for the cool climate variety. Beginning with the 2006 vintage we began taking a small amount of Pinot Gris from this site. Generally receiving less than 6 tons from our block we’ve opted for low yield and maximum flavor development. The physical location of this vineyard means that during the growing season fog often hovers over the vineyard until noon or later. Burning off afternoon, the fog recedes for a few hours to make way for the warm, afternoon sun. Even in late summer, afternoon temperatures remain cool, which assures that the fruit’s natural acidity remains firm. In our quest to produce Alsatian grape varities made in a classic Alsace style, we feel that this vineyard is well suited to give us world class grapes to work with. The last vintage for Arista Mononi Vineyard Pinot Gris was 2009.