Valravn Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, California 2023
Baron Ziegler and Rob Fischer (of Marine Layer Wines) created Valravn to make the Pinot Noir that everyone wants, but no one can find: one that is exceptional under $60. They achieve this wine (which is way under $60 by the way) by emphasizing deep relationships with their farmers, and by paying attention to every detail along the way.
"...dark ruby color...aromas of red and black fruits, accented by hints of baking spices...crisp freshness that complements the brambly, briar patch character. Flavors of cranberry and pomegranate contribute a rich texture that remains balanced, thanks to the cool-climate grapes’ taut, linear structure." — Winemaker Tasting Notes
Baron Ziegler and Rob Fischer believe exceptional Sonoma County wines shouldn't require exceptional bank accounts. Valravn emerged in 2014 when the duo was offered old-vine Zinfandel grapes from bush-pruned vines they'd long admired—launching what would become their mission to craft single-vineyard level wines at accessible prices. Ziegler, who began buying Bordeaux futures at 15 to fund his Boston University condo, built his wine industry expertise working for James Beard award-winning importer Eric Solomon before founding multiple successful brands including Banshee Wines (later sold to billionaire Bill Foley). Fischer, a Napa native whose "summer job" at Domaine Carneros became a calling, honed his analytical yet creative approach through roles at Etude, Lyric, and Beaulieu Vineyards before earning his Enology degree from Fresno State. Through their dynamic network of growers and winemakers built over a decade in Sonoma County, Valravn secures exclusive access to fantastic vineyards, finding "a parcel here and a row there" to create approachable, delicious wines that are table-ready from release. Their philosophy: awesome fruit, respectful winemaking, amazing prices—proving that quality and value aren't mutually exclusive in California wine.
