Windrun is a Santa Barbara County based negociant solely focused on producing Pinot Noir from grapes grown in the prime vineyards of Coastal California. Our mission is to provide excellent wines at everyday prices.
Every vintage, we carefully select from the harvest the wines we feel can best be finished and blended to bring out the finest characteristics of each varietal. Then, we present them for sale at an outstanding value.
Our name, “Windrun” is a winegrowing term used to denote a measure of the flow of cool breezes through a vineyard in the afternoon and evening, which is critical to the optimum development of classic Burgundian grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
2013 Windrun Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
Tasting Notes
It exhibits classic blackberry fruit aromatics that blend with a bit of brown spice and a hint of smoke and minerality. Flavors showcase an excellent dark berry character with hints of earth tones. A full-bodied palate with a long, savory finish makes it the perfect complement to hearty meat and game dishes.
Vineyard and Winemaker Notes
Sta. Rita Hills is a world-renowned appellation at the western end of the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County that has earned acclaim for its Pinot Noir. Warm days and cool, foggy nights provide ideal growing conditions for this varietal. This complex wine reflects the rich, concentrated 2013 harvest.
A blend of 5 clones from the Lafond Vineyard (Pommard, 115, 777, 828, and 667), the juice was 100% de-stemmed and fermented in open top tanks. The wine was aged in neutral 500 liter puncheons for 10 months and completed malolactic fermentation in the barrel.
Specs
Blend: 100% Sta. Rita Hills
T.A.: 6.7 g/L
pH: 3.48
Alcohol: 14.3%
95 Points & Cellar Selection, Tastings.com World Wine Championships
2014 Windrun Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
Tasting Notes
The near-perfect 2014 vintage is reflected in this Clone 2A Pinot Noir with its classic dark blackberry and cherry fruit core with hints of brown spice and earthiness. The full-bodied palate with a long finish makes the wine a wonderful companion for many full-flavored meat or pasta recipes.
This limited production wine of very high quality is typical of the care Windrun takes to select the best wines from the finest coastal vineyards.
Sta. Rita Hills Winery of the Year, New York International Wine Competition
Great wine at great prices: That is our concept. Windrun Wine is a vintner that sells premium coastal California wines at reasonable prices. The quality of our wine surpasses many selling for twice as much. We focus on selecting the finest wines made from grapes grown in the prime vineyards of coastal California, then carefully blend them to emphasize their aromatics and balanced flavors.
Windrun Wine was founded by Lance Mason in 2010. A lifelong interest in wines carried him to some of the most famous wine growing regions in the world, and that fed a desire to create his own brand using the wines of his home region on the central coast of California. When an opportunity presented itself to work with legendary California winemaker Ken Brown, a new venture was born.
In naming the company, a term from Mr. Brown’s viticulture experience was selected. “Windrun” is a measure of the flow of cool breezes through a vineyard in the afternoon and evening, which is critical to the correct development of Burgundian grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The brand was born, and the first two Santa Barbara County wines, a 2009 Santa Barbara County Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, went to market later in the year.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Winery question, should they arrive…
Exactly what closure are you using, and what drinking window are you attempting to achieve?
Not against twist-offs, just want to know what it is;
as they are not all equal.
Windrun Wine uses Stelvin caps, the highest quality screw caps made especially for wine. Google Stelvin & you’ll see comments from experts like, “I personally, love stelvin caps.” This from the link with a great headline,“Screw cap vs cork, Many winemakers say 'Screw it.”
“The screw cap is not like a hermetic seal,” counters Andrew Waterhouse, professor of enology at UC Davis. “It does allow in some oxygen,” especially now that manufacturer Stelvin offers different screw-cap products with varying — and, unlike cork, entirely predictable — oxygen transfer rates."
But really, we have spent a lot of time discussing screw caps over the last 9 years and we switched to cork with our 2015 wine
So I assume you’ve chosen a closure with an OTR comparable with natural cork, to allow additional bottle development.
Any thoughts as to what we may expect?
Drink now, +3, +5, +10?
Just get tired of fighting the anti-twist-off crowd, or the perception of lower quality some associate with non-cork finished bottles?
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
2013/2014 Windrun Pinot Noir - $45 = 29.99%
@chipgreen@mrn1 Just step outside, blood will freeze quickly. I could be a participant here too I think. Would like to see notes from a rat to seal it.
Windrun 2013 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
Date Tasted: 5/12/2017
95 Points, Gold Medal, Exceptional, Cellar Selection
2017 Best Pinot Noir, 2017 Best US Pinot Noir
Dark dusty garnet color. Inviting aromas of dr. pepper, porcini mushroom, and oolong tea with a lightly tannic, bright, dryish light-to-medium body and an intricate, medium-long wet earth, eucalyptus, rose and black pepper, and sponge cake with dried cassis finish with medium, earthy tannins and a suggestion of oak flavor. A concentrated pinot noir with complex hedonistic flavors.
Enjoy: In 3-6 years on its own and with food
and:
Windrun 2014 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
Date Tasted: 4/17/2018, Alcohol: 14.5% RS: <1%
89 Points, Silver Medal, Highly Recommended
Dark garnet color. Aromas and flavors of tapioca, cherry cobbler, and honey gelato with a silky, bright, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a smooth, stimulating, medium-length finish that shows suggestions of praline, buttercream, earth, and nutshell with fine, dusty tannins and light oak flavor. A rock solid pinot.
Enjoy: Now on it’s own
Windrun 2013 Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills)
89 Points
This accessibly priced wine shows soy, black tea, boysenberry, black pepper, baked plums and lavender notes on the nose. The palate offers lilacs, rose petals and more lavender, alongside olallieberry, pencil lead and a peppery spice. 5/1/16 MK
Windrun 2014 Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills)
87 Points
This bottling is very mellow and shy on many fronts, though it emerges from its shell with patience. Light aromas of red fruit and dark spice lead into a palate with a full mouthfeel, carrying flavors of raspberry, rose petal, loam and eventually sharp baking spice. 4/1/18 MK
“The berry was first developed in 1949 at Oregon State University by the U.S. Department of Agriculture by crossing a Loganberry with a Youngberry. The result was called Olallie, a Native American word meaning “berry”.”
You can’t go wrong with Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara. At this price point I’m in for a case. Was out there last summer. Amazing climate and terroir. I fear I will regret not buying more. Looks like a big Pinot for a region better known for its Burgundian style Pinot. Looking forward to it!
@winesnob well, I’ve tasted A good amount of new world pinots from Sta Rita Hills including Flying Goat, Loring Wine company, and Seasmoke. Great pinots btw but I feel the area has an equal amount of new vs old world Pinot winemakers which I truly enjoy
“OOPS, SORRY. WE CAN’T SHIP THIS TO IL.” That’s a first. Since I’m trapped inside due to Polar Vortex figured I’d buy some wine to pass the time, but my plans were foiled. Bummer.
@cpsigsegv I, too, was tempted by this (but foiled by being in ILLinois). I thought of having it shipped to the place we are moving to in Missouri (so far, I have only seen one offering here that was not available in MO) but our trips down there are too sporadic to be able to do that. Bummer!
Thanks for the comments, this is our family and friends prices, which I normally hand deliver, The 2014 is amazing, but you’re right, I picked an awkward label
Scott
@WindRun Thanks for chiming in. Sounds like the 2014 trumps (no not him) the 2013 based on the pro reviews as well but what do the pros know right?!
If the 2014 is amazing, the 2013 is at least worthy?
our 2013 pinot put us on the map as the Sta. Rita Hills Winery of the year from the New York international Wine Competition, so it is also worthy, and we paired the so you can try both with friends
@winedavid49@windrun I know I’m a pain about this occasionally, but I hope this does indeed make it by the 20th or so…I know, should have asked before I bought…
And I just bought a case and am willing to split with anyone in the Sioux Falls or Twin Cities areas. I really don’t need 12 bottles, but the price was too good to pass up!
While I’ve only had a few Willamette Valley Pinots, I would say that the 2A clone is described as, Cherry, raspberry, rose petal, medium body, & medium to firm tannins. Our 2013 has 5 different clones. We decided to show off the 2A clone, instead of trying to get a wine that the general public wanted. but back to your question. the same clones are used in in both Sta. Rita Hills and Willamette Valley, the 2A clone is also called the Wadenswil, and that is what most in Oregon call it. This may be more technical than you were asking, So Maybe
scott
rjquillin said 17 hours ago:
Winery question, should they arrive…
Exactly what closure are you using, and what drinking window are you attempting to achieve?
Not against twist-offs, just want to know what it is;
as they are not all equal.
@WindRun what’s the drinking window looking like for these?
@TechnoViking@WindRun
Yeah, I did a follow-up on this earlier in the thread as well.
Looking more and more interesting.
Hoping for a reply and a bit of commentary as well.
Thanks WR for jumping in the fray here.
Likely not your normal array of questions…
for our first Question:
Windrun Wine uses Stelvin caps, the highest quality screw caps made especially for wine. Google Stelvin & you’ll see comments from experts like, “I personally, love stelvin caps.” This from the link with a great headline,“Screw cap vs cork, Many winemakers say 'Screw it.”
2nd question, the 2013 is ready now, and the 2014 now and for a couple years
@WindRun On my short term consumable wines a quality screw cap is a selling point. When you need pomp and ceremony then and only then do I prefer cork. I mention this because all you probably hear are complaints from the old guard.
Cheers!
@losthighwayz Both vineyards are on the southern side of the STa Rita Hills, off Santa Rosa road, the 13 came from Lanfond (479 cases) and the 14 (733cases) from another vineyard a few miles further west.
A lot of us decide whether to buy or not to buy based on the rat reports. It’s disappointing to see these reviews not coming in on time. Perhaps it’s time to start picking new rats that can deliver results when a lot of us are looking for them.
@Turner103200 true but I recall that rat bottles are dependent on the seller/winery. I may be wrong. On a separate note, winemaker pedigree in this particular offer was enough to push me over the edge. Google Ken Brown. I cant afford his wines often and at 8.75 worth the risk
To add to this rats are also selected from the kickstarter list and subsequent volunteers. Casemates staff have not yet learned fully who is a good rat and who is a bum. Bums get removed from the rat list.
Perhaps I wasn’t clear with my comment, I think the rat reports are extremely important and people rely on them to help with their decisions on making a purchase.
As Lost suggests above, it seems that not every winery is interested in having us locals do reviews. Do we know for sure that there were supposed to be rats yesterday?
Also, I wish we could lose the tone of condemnation that seems to be the default when confirmed rats don’t show up promptly. How many examples have we seen of bottles going astray, of missed FedEx deliveries, of people being otherwise unavailable to taste and review the bottles by the time the sale goes live? Sure, some people are just plain deadbeats, fie on them, but why immediately leap to judgment when we don’t have all the facts?
Sorry if I offended anyone with my comments. It wasn’t my intention. I just really look forward to hearing from the rats. It truly helps me decide whether to purchase or not. I think it’s part of what makes Casemates so special. Cheers everyone.
@Turner103200 What we need is some information on the front offer page about the following.
Has the winery supplied wine for rattage.
Any special circumstances that have prevented rattage or would cause rattage to be late.
If so how many bottles have been sent.
It would also seem like we get on a non-scientific average about two reports per offer. Increasing the number rats would improve the number of reports.
Another suggestion would be to have “black tie rats”. These rats would be held out for “nicer” offers, and selected because of their reliability and strong tasting notes.
Information is power people.
@foxrunner@Turner103200 I think casemates has to walk a fine line here. It talks time and money to send out these bottles. I think 2 per offer is fine, its a bummer when folks dont report back although sometimes its a simple miscommunication.
Bottle getting shipped to someone on vacation or offer dates changing for bottles already sent out.
I have done a bit of rattage around here and have multiple cases where things just didnt work out.
Sending out even more bottles may not really fix it and will increase costs.
@CorTot@Turner103200 The cost side is a real concern, but good rats must increase sales. Maybe increase the number of rats on the Mon. and Wed. offer and declare no rats on the 24 hour sale and weekend sale?
Thoughts??
@CorTot@foxrunner@Turner103200
I think rats on Monday, Wednesday,and Saturday could be anyone rats. Friday might be for the more seasoned winewoot/casemate buyer or rats who have proven themselves
@CorTot@foxrunner@jml326@Turner103200 this is all REALLY good input. labrats is such a favorite of mine, costs be damned! i think it differentiates us and should be talked about. thanks.
@ctmariner I was wondering the same…there’s usually an estimated delivery date here. They did create a FedEx label for my shipment today, but that doesn’t mean much since I’ve seen shipments stay in that state for a couple weeks.
@rjquillin my order shows processing here on CM as well, but i’m signed up through FedEx. Anything coming my way I get an alert 5-7am via text with tracking details.
@rjquillin@TechnoViking Thanks for responses - very useful - my order is showing as still processing but it is shipping to my local FedEx office so I will check in with them in the next day or so as they will hold for 5 days.
It’s why I keep coming back and buying wine from Casemates, just like I did when it was Woot. The rats make the difference from other sites (that and the awesome deals).
And to restate, I think if people consistently can’t deliver when they are given the opportunity to do so, then it’s time to find new rats that can. It is to everyone’s benefit, in my opinion.
Windrun is a Santa Barbara County based negociant solely focused on producing Pinot Noir from grapes grown in the prime vineyards of Coastal California. Our mission is to provide excellent wines at everyday prices.
Every vintage, we carefully select from the harvest the wines we feel can best be finished and blended to bring out the finest characteristics of each varietal. Then, we present them for sale at an outstanding value.
Our name, “Windrun” is a winegrowing term used to denote a measure of the flow of cool breezes through a vineyard in the afternoon and evening, which is critical to the optimum development of classic Burgundian grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
2013 Windrun Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
Tasting Notes
It exhibits classic blackberry fruit aromatics that blend with a bit of brown spice and a hint of smoke and minerality. Flavors showcase an excellent dark berry character with hints of earth tones. A full-bodied palate with a long, savory finish makes it the perfect complement to hearty meat and game dishes.
Vineyard and Winemaker Notes
Sta. Rita Hills is a world-renowned appellation at the western end of the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County that has earned acclaim for its Pinot Noir. Warm days and cool, foggy nights provide ideal growing conditions for this varietal. This complex wine reflects the rich, concentrated 2013 harvest.
A blend of 5 clones from the Lafond Vineyard (Pommard, 115, 777, 828, and 667), the juice was 100% de-stemmed and fermented in open top tanks. The wine was aged in neutral 500 liter puncheons for 10 months and completed malolactic fermentation in the barrel.
Specs
2014 Windrun Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
Tasting Notes
The near-perfect 2014 vintage is reflected in this Clone 2A Pinot Noir with its classic dark blackberry and cherry fruit core with hints of brown spice and earthiness. The full-bodied palate with a long finish makes the wine a wonderful companion for many full-flavored meat or pasta recipes.
This limited production wine of very high quality is typical of the care Windrun takes to select the best wines from the finest coastal vineyards.
Specs
Price Comparison
$361.47/case (including shipping) at Windrun Wine
About The Winery
Winery: Windrun Wine
Sta. Rita Hills Winery of the Year, New York International Wine Competition
Great wine at great prices: That is our concept. Windrun Wine is a vintner that sells premium coastal California wines at reasonable prices. The quality of our wine surpasses many selling for twice as much. We focus on selecting the finest wines made from grapes grown in the prime vineyards of coastal California, then carefully blend them to emphasize their aromatics and balanced flavors.
Windrun Wine was founded by Lance Mason in 2010. A lifelong interest in wines carried him to some of the most famous wine growing regions in the world, and that fed a desire to create his own brand using the wines of his home region on the central coast of California. When an opportunity presented itself to work with legendary California winemaker Ken Brown, a new venture was born.
In naming the company, a term from Mr. Brown’s viticulture experience was selected. “Windrun” is a measure of the flow of cool breezes through a vineyard in the afternoon and evening, which is critical to the correct development of Burgundian grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The brand was born, and the first two Santa Barbara County wines, a 2009 Santa Barbara County Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, went to market later in the year.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Estimated Delivery
Monday, February 25th - Thursday, February 28th
Windrun Pinot Noir
4 bottles for $49.99 $12.50/bottle + $2/bottle shipping
Case of 12 for $104.99 $8.75/bottle + $1/bottle shipping
2013 Windrun Pinot Noir
2014 Windrun Pinot Noir
Winery question, should they arrive…
Exactly what closure are you using, and what drinking window are you attempting to achieve?
Not against twist-offs, just want to know what it is;
as they are not all equal.
@Windrun Any comment on this? I’m curious as well.
Waiting on a response to this one as well.
Windrun Wine uses Stelvin caps, the highest quality screw caps made especially for wine. Google Stelvin & you’ll see comments from experts like, “I personally, love stelvin caps.” This from the link with a great headline,“Screw cap vs cork, Many winemakers say 'Screw it.”
“The screw cap is not like a hermetic seal,” counters Andrew Waterhouse, professor of enology at UC Davis. “It does allow in some oxygen,” especially now that manufacturer Stelvin offers different screw-cap products with varying — and, unlike cork, entirely predictable — oxygen transfer rates."
But really, we have spent a lot of time discussing screw caps over the last 9 years and we switched to cork with our 2015 wine
@WindRun
So I assume you’ve chosen a closure with an OTR comparable with natural cork, to allow additional bottle development.
Any thoughts as to what we may expect?
Drink now, +3, +5, +10?
Just get tired of fighting the anti-twist-off crowd, or the perception of lower quality some associate with non-cork finished bottles?
Thanks for jumping in.
This is a prime example of the type of wines that come our way now and again. GREAT juice , ill advised label choice.
Enjoy.
@Winedavid49 lol, agreed on the label.
@CorTot yea, and they freely admit it. It happens.
Pinot noir at eff-it price… Shut up and take my money
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
2013/2014 Windrun Pinot Noir - $45 = 29.99%
<sigh> If any of the NE Oh crew wants to pull the trigger on this, I am good for 4 bottles.
@chipgreen I’ll probably do so, but might wait until the rats wake up. @winedavid49 's words above have me ready for a split.
@chipgreen @mrn1 @Winedavid49
Rats would definitely be helpful.
@mrn1
Agree, it appears this is going to be crazy good QPR. I can do 6 if needed… but the bleeding has to stop soon! Doesn’t it?
@chipgreen @mrn1 Just step outside, blood will freeze quickly. I could be a participant here too I think. Would like to see notes from a rat to seal it.
@chipgreen Myself keeps telling myself…you’re not buying any wine this week! I just don’t listen!
@chipgreen @pjmartin I got impatient waiting for the rats…in for a case. 4 each???
@chipgreen @mrn1 Sure I’ll take the flyer with you. SRH Pinot is usually enjoyable.
@mrn1 @pjmartin
Great, count me in!
/giphy skinny-crappy-helium
From the referenced Tasting.com reviews:
Windrun 2013 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
Date Tasted: 5/12/2017
95 Points, Gold Medal, Exceptional, Cellar Selection
2017 Best Pinot Noir, 2017 Best US Pinot Noir
Dark dusty garnet color. Inviting aromas of dr. pepper, porcini mushroom, and oolong tea with a lightly tannic, bright, dryish light-to-medium body and an intricate, medium-long wet earth, eucalyptus, rose and black pepper, and sponge cake with dried cassis finish with medium, earthy tannins and a suggestion of oak flavor. A concentrated pinot noir with complex hedonistic flavors.
Enjoy: In 3-6 years on its own and with food
http://www.tastings.com/Wine-Review/Windrun-2013-Pinot-Noir-Santa-Rita-Hills-USA-06-05-2017.aspx
and:
Windrun 2014 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
Date Tasted: 4/17/2018, Alcohol: 14.5% RS: <1%
89 Points, Silver Medal, Highly Recommended
Dark garnet color. Aromas and flavors of tapioca, cherry cobbler, and honey gelato with a silky, bright, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a smooth, stimulating, medium-length finish that shows suggestions of praline, buttercream, earth, and nutshell with fine, dusty tannins and light oak flavor. A rock solid pinot.
Enjoy: Now on it’s own
http://www.tastings.com/Wine-Review/Windrun-2014-Pinot-Noir-Santa-Rita-Hills-USA-06-05-2018.aspx
And from Wine Enthusiast:
Windrun 2013 Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills)
89 Points
This accessibly priced wine shows soy, black tea, boysenberry, black pepper, baked plums and lavender notes on the nose. The palate offers lilacs, rose petals and more lavender, alongside olallieberry, pencil lead and a peppery spice. 5/1/16 MK
https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/windrun-2013-pinot-noir-sta-rita-hills
Windrun 2014 Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills)
87 Points
This bottling is very mellow and shy on many fronts, though it emerges from its shell with patience. Light aromas of red fruit and dark spice lead into a palate with a full mouthfeel, carrying flavors of raspberry, rose petal, loam and eventually sharp baking spice. 4/1/18 MK
https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/windrun-2014-pinot-noir-sta-rita-hills/
fwiw
olallieberry, really?
“The berry was first developed in 1949 at Oregon State University by the U.S. Department of Agriculture by crossing a Loganberry with a Youngberry. The result was called Olallie, a Native American word meaning “berry”.”
So it’s a berry berry
@browncj7 so this wine is berry berry good?
@kaolis humor noir
@kaolis OK, that’s kind of an obscure one, but at least a berry flavor is in the usual ballpark for a wine like this. But tapioca?
By the way, I’m sure I’m not the only one here who’s had the famous olallieberry pie of Pescadero. Yum.
@kaolis Difficult to argue it’s not, given how few could likely accurately describe it’s taste or aroma.
@rjquillin True. Wine descriptors are bad enough as it is, but when I have to google them…
You can’t go wrong with Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara. At this price point I’m in for a case. Was out there last summer. Amazing climate and terroir. I fear I will regret not buying more. Looks like a big Pinot for a region better known for its Burgundian style Pinot. Looking forward to it!
@winesnob well, I’ve tasted A good amount of new world pinots from Sta Rita Hills including Flying Goat, Loring Wine company, and Seasmoke. Great pinots btw but I feel the area has an equal amount of new vs old world Pinot winemakers which I truly enjoy
Anybody in the Houston area want to go in on a case?
@modfalk I’ll take 4-6
@SDL3 Order is in
/giphy parasitic-disturbed-arsenic
“OOPS, SORRY. WE CAN’T SHIP THIS TO IL.” That’s a first. Since I’m trapped inside due to Polar Vortex figured I’d buy some wine to pass the time, but my plans were foiled. Bummer.
@cpsigsegv I, too, was tempted by this (but foiled by being in ILLinois). I thought of having it shipped to the place we are moving to in Missouri (so far, I have only seen one offering here that was not available in MO) but our trips down there are too sporadic to be able to do that. Bummer!
/giphy creative-brilliant-cellar
In for a case. SE Michiganders, let me know if you want any.
Thanks for the comments, this is our family and friends prices, which I normally hand deliver, The 2014 is amazing, but you’re right, I picked an awkward label
Scott
@WindRun Thanks for chiming in. Sounds like the 2014 trumps (no not him) the 2013 based on the pro reviews as well but what do the pros know right?!
If the 2014 is amazing, the 2013 is at least worthy?
@WindRun actually I got my vintages in the wrong order didn’t I? Oh well…not the first time
/giphy unhappy-talkative-behavior
OK, so I bought a case. At this price, my work crew will grab it. But I can spare a few.
Mitt, I’m happy. I just bought wine.
our 2013 pinot put us on the map as the Sta. Rita Hills Winery of the year from the New York international Wine Competition, so it is also worthy, and we paired the so you can try both with friends
@WindRun Thanks! Figured it was but always good to hear from the horse’s mouth as they say
@WindRun oops…I got things reversed…
@kaolis actually, the 2014 just took longer to hit the sweet stop
/giphy scrawny-photogenic-grass
I am a sucker for a good Pinot for under $10 a bottle, and I hope this is a good one, but sounds like it should be!
Ok, I put a case marker on the map in SC
@winedavid49 @windrun I know I’m a pain about this occasionally, but I hope this does indeed make it by the 20th or so…I know, should have asked before I bought…
I picked up a case but am willing to share if anyone in the Syracuse, NY area wants to split?
@NatasG I’m in!
@ecanada Sounds Great! 6 each unless we get a third?
And I just bought a case and am willing to split with anyone in the Sioux Falls or Twin Cities areas. I really don’t need 12 bottles, but the price was too good to pass up!
@coynedj I sent you a whisper.
/giphy eloquent-rolly-division
/giphy innate-devious-meat
In for a case. Does the 2a clone used in the 2014 make it similar in style to some Willamette Valley Pinots ?
While I’ve only had a few Willamette Valley Pinots, I would say that the 2A clone is described as, Cherry, raspberry, rose petal, medium body, & medium to firm tannins. Our 2013 has 5 different clones. We decided to show off the 2A clone, instead of trying to get a wine that the general public wanted. but back to your question. the same clones are used in in both Sta. Rita Hills and Willamette Valley, the 2A clone is also called the Wadenswil, and that is what most in Oregon call it. This may be more technical than you were asking, So Maybe
scott
@WindRun what’s the drinking window looking like for these?
@TechnoViking @WindRun
Yeah, I did a follow-up on this earlier in the thread as well.
Looking more and more interesting.
Hoping for a reply and a bit of commentary as well.
Thanks WR for jumping in the fray here.
Likely not your normal array of questions…
for our first Question:
Windrun Wine uses Stelvin caps, the highest quality screw caps made especially for wine. Google Stelvin & you’ll see comments from experts like, “I personally, love stelvin caps.” This from the link with a great headline,“Screw cap vs cork, Many winemakers say 'Screw it.”
2nd question, the 2013 is ready now, and the 2014 now and for a couple years
@WindRun Can’t wait to crack one open!
@WindRun On my short term consumable wines a quality screw cap is a selling point. When you need pomp and ceremony then and only then do I prefer cork. I mention this because all you probably hear are complaints from the old guard.
Cheers!
Where in the Sta Rita Hills are the vineyards? I’m somewhat familiar with the area and I’m curious. How many cases were produce of each vintage?
@losthighwayz Both vineyards are on the southern side of the STa Rita Hills, off Santa Rosa road, the 13 came from Lanfond (479 cases) and the 14 (733cases) from another vineyard a few miles further west.
I just noticed Ken Brown in the winery write up. Was he involved in this venture? Love his wines!
@losthighwayz Ken has been our wine maker since 2010, he signs the tasting notes, I be with him tomorrow as we taste samples for our 2018 Vintage
@WindRun nice. No brainer for me now!
I never thought I’d trust a $10 pinot but the notes are encouraging and the enthusiasm is infectious, I’m in for a case.
/giphy maroon-clear-lobster
Thanks, you are making a good call
/giphy audible-cogent-protest
/giphy sweaty-productive-mink
I give up… ready-influential-art
Wow, this hits all the right notes for me. Excited after hearing these winemaker tidbits, too!
/giphy incompetent-internal-wizard
I gave up waiting for rats and am going with @winedavid49’s comments; in for a case!
In for a case - at this price it would be hard to miss.
/giphy meaty-trained-loss
Anyone in NYC interested in splitting a case?
@kr4 If nobody steps up, I can pass a couple of bottles your way, if the logistics are favorable.
@InFrom I am in Manhattan. UES.
@kr4 That could work.
Waited too long
Cases sold out
@kray05 stand by. we are moving some things around and cases should be live shortly.
@kray05 @Winedavid49 Cases are live again. Just bought one.
@Winedavid49 Thank You!
/giphy flirtatious-flying-captionh
I had decided to bite on a 4-pack and woo hoo! Cases have been restocked.
Cheers!
@cynthylee I was sad when the cases were sold out, but sad no more!
/giphy fastidious-exciting-canvas
/giphy grainy-permissive-eagle
Why no shipping to Illinois for this one?
@takedownchris I was told that we don’t have a the correct permit for Ill
@WindRun hmmm well you could just ship the case here for free… I guess to avoid the permit
🥳
/giphy earnest-detailed-skunk
looks like cases are still out? or did they just sell out again? son of a nutcracker…
@frankster14 I couldn’t resist…
/giphy son of a nutcracker
@InFrom awesome!
Any chance cases will come back again?
@cole103 give it a try now - I was just able to order a case
looks like cases are back - was able to place an order. Thanks Casemate gods
@frankster14 @winedavid49
I’d sure have appreciated this for the IH 4-packs…
@frankster14 @rjquillin @Winedavid49
I would have appreciated some reassurance that the IH case purchase was a better option than the smaller 4-pack.
premium-quickest-popcorn
/giphy prissy-buttered-cottonmouth
/giphy onerous-masterful-lake
Just picked up a case if anyone in NoVA is interested in a split.
@Maurakid yes and please! I’m in DC but work in FFX
Wasn’t going to buy without good rattage…but saw that it kept selling out. I guess FOMO got the best of me.
/giphy amiable-grody-corn
Couldn’t hold back anymore, caved in for a case. Cheers everyone!
Thanks @Winedavid49
A lot of us decide whether to buy or not to buy based on the rat reports. It’s disappointing to see these reviews not coming in on time. Perhaps it’s time to start picking new rats that can deliver results when a lot of us are looking for them.
@Turner103200 true but I recall that rat bottles are dependent on the seller/winery. I may be wrong. On a separate note, winemaker pedigree in this particular offer was enough to push me over the edge. Google Ken Brown. I cant afford his wines often and at 8.75 worth the risk
To add to this rats are also selected from the kickstarter list and subsequent volunteers. Casemates staff have not yet learned fully who is a good rat and who is a bum. Bums get removed from the rat list.
@jml326 accurate.
Perhaps I wasn’t clear with my comment, I think the rat reports are extremely important and people rely on them to help with their decisions on making a purchase.
@Turner103200 No confusion here, and quite frustrated when they don’t perform.
@rjquillin @Turner103200
/giphy performing rats
As Lost suggests above, it seems that not every winery is interested in having us locals do reviews. Do we know for sure that there were supposed to be rats yesterday?
Also, I wish we could lose the tone of condemnation that seems to be the default when confirmed rats don’t show up promptly. How many examples have we seen of bottles going astray, of missed FedEx deliveries, of people being otherwise unavailable to taste and review the bottles by the time the sale goes live? Sure, some people are just plain deadbeats, fie on them, but why immediately leap to judgment when we don’t have all the facts?
/giphy voluptuous-jumping-taste
Sorry if I offended anyone with my comments. It wasn’t my intention. I just really look forward to hearing from the rats. It truly helps me decide whether to purchase or not. I think it’s part of what makes Casemates so special. Cheers everyone.
@Turner103200 What we need is some information on the front offer page about the following.
It would also seem like we get on a non-scientific average about two reports per offer. Increasing the number rats would improve the number of reports.
Another suggestion would be to have “black tie rats”. These rats would be held out for “nicer” offers, and selected because of their reliability and strong tasting notes.
Information is power people.
@foxrunner @Turner103200 I think casemates has to walk a fine line here. It talks time and money to send out these bottles. I think 2 per offer is fine, its a bummer when folks dont report back although sometimes its a simple miscommunication.
Bottle getting shipped to someone on vacation or offer dates changing for bottles already sent out.
I have done a bit of rattage around here and have multiple cases where things just didnt work out.
Sending out even more bottles may not really fix it and will increase costs.
@Turner103200 No offense taken (well, not by me, anyway). I like it better when we play nice here.
@CorTot @Turner103200 The cost side is a real concern, but good rats must increase sales. Maybe increase the number of rats on the Mon. and Wed. offer and declare no rats on the 24 hour sale and weekend sale?
Thoughts??
@CorTot @foxrunner @Turner103200
I think rats on Monday, Wednesday,and Saturday could be anyone rats. Friday might be for the more seasoned winewoot/casemate buyer or rats who have proven themselves
@CorTot @foxrunner @jml326 @Turner103200 this is all REALLY good input. labrats is such a favorite of mine, costs be damned! i think it differentiates us and should be talked about. thanks.
Is there an estimated delivery date for this offer? Ordered a case - could not see a date above or with order but may have missed it!
@ctmariner I was wondering the same…there’s usually an estimated delivery date here. They did create a FedEx label for my shipment today, but that doesn’t mean much since I’ve seen shipments stay in that state for a couple weeks.
@ctmariner @TimW mine just shipped out yesterday, said it’s coming today, realistically it will deliver tomorrow.
@ctmariner @TechnoViking @TimW
my status still shows ‘processing’, but there have been deliveries that arrived before they shipped too…
@rjquillin my order shows processing here on CM as well, but i’m signed up through FedEx. Anything coming my way I get an alert 5-7am via text with tracking details.
@rjquillin @TechnoViking Thanks for responses - very useful - my order is showing as still processing but it is shipping to my local FedEx office so I will check in with them in the next day or so as they will hold for 5 days.
@rjquillin @TechnoViking Just received tracking number - being delivered 2/13 - yay!
It’s why I keep coming back and buying wine from Casemates, just like I did when it was Woot. The rats make the difference from other sites (that and the awesome deals).
And to restate, I think if people consistently can’t deliver when they are given the opportunity to do so, then it’s time to find new rats that can. It is to everyone’s benefit, in my opinion.
MEALS! DEALS! EELS! AWESOME!
Oh-oh…