Croix Estate is a new project, it appears. I see that they will feature single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. I am curious as to what this means for the Rue Vineyard…
From what I heard Bob Rue has been suffering with some health issues, dementia related if I’m not mistaken. His family decided to sell as they were unwilling or unable to continue running the winery. I met him through a friend who did business with him, a very nice man and some tasty wines at times. I wish Bob and his family nothing but the best!
Guess that explains the recent sale of the RR 2013 zin century old reserve wine for $15 a bottle. Wonder if the new owner will keep making zin from the old vines or pull them out for more modern grapes.
Between Mr Underwood’s email (?) to the Croix Estate, and me tipping off a couple of HVS peeps, I hope we can get an answer soon.
The outlook, in my opinion, is not looking good for the old Rue Zin vineyard.
Some Contra Costa townships are passing local legislation to preserve their area’s historic vineyard sites.
I believe that communities that share a common appreciation for their viticultural heritage have to be the front-line defenders of vulnerable vineyards.
Tastes change, and it seems frugal, on the surface, to embrace current market demands. However, each of these California vineyards are time capsules of taste, and there’s no faking that!
Just talked to Jason Williams of Croix. He says Croix already makes a zin in Napa area, and will be using the old vines to make a zin at the old RR property. They may plant some pinot too, but will be keeping and using the old zin vines. Phew!
That is very good news! I mean, does the RRV need more acreage of Pinot Noir? I don’t think covering every possible spot of dirt with vines is going to serve the County, or the consumer, well.
