Keller Estate, La Cruz Pinot Gris, 2020

Keller Estate was founded by Arturo and Deborah Keller, who discovered the property in 1989 while looking for a place to house Arturo’s world-class vintage car collection. They soon realized the land's viticultural potential and planted the La Cruz Vineyard (named for the "The Cross" on the hillside). Today, the estate is led by Arturo’s daughter, Ana Keller, who has been a pivotal force in establishing the Petaluma Gap as its own American Viticultural Area (AVA). The brand is deeply rooted in Arturo’s Mexican-Swiss heritage, blending European elegance with a commitment to the California soil. While the estate doesn’t use a traditional Latin motto, their guiding philosophy is: "Honouring our roots, respecting our terroir." This reflects their dedication to organic, regenerative farming and their practice of giving wines Spanish names to celebrate their Latino heritage. This wine is a 100% Pinot Gris from the La Cruz Vineyard. The fruit is grown on mineral-rich clay soils of an ancient seabed. Keller Estate utilized a combination of stainless steel and neutral French oak. This specific "Burgundian style" approach includes whole-cluster pressing and sur lie aging (resting on the yeast) to add texture and a hint of brioche without the heavy vanilla flavours of new oak. The 2020 La Cruz Pinot Gris opens with a vibrant bouquet of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle, and crushed stone. On the palate, it balances a luscious, silken texture with the Petaluma Gap's signature bracing acidity. Layers of white peach, crisp Asian pear, and a hint of ginger lead into a long, mineral-driven finish that reflects its cool-climate, ancient seabed terroir. This wine is the ideal companion for fresh ceviche with lime and cilantro or a summer peach and goat cheese salad.