Since their first vintage in 1999, the driving objective of Windy Oaks has been to produce world-class Pinot Noir that faithfully represents the unique vineyard terroir, with no compromises. Windy Oaks winemaking begins in the vineyards, which they farm in a fully sustainable way, using many organic and biodynamic practices. This fundamental principle extends to the other varietals they farm and produce.
In recent years, Windy Oaks has pioneered a variety of innovative practices in its vineyards and winery. Among them, in the vineyard they use a multi-stage pruning process; leaf-pulling within the vine canopy; avoidance of hedging (inspired by Leroy in Burgundy); and the use of a hot-air machine to minimize the need for chemical sprays and to control undesirable insects. In the winery, they use a naturally occurring yeast to eliminate the need for SO2 during crush; specially designed fermentation barrels for maximum preservation of delicate nuances of aroma and flavor in the wines; and no barrel racking. Finally, they extend aging on the lees to enhance mouthfeel and phenolic integration, and eliminate all filtering and fining of the wines, including the white varietals.
