A Note From Jeff Mangahas, VP/Director of Winemaking

A return of cool weather marked the 2023 vintage, helping to slow down ripening, and allowing for impressive tannin development and tremendous flavor. This classic vintage showcases the unique terroir of each site and is not to be missed. The fall release features many wines that are highly regarded and limited in production.

It has always been Williams Selyem’s mission to “make the best wines, from the best grapes, from the best growers.” Through thoughtful vineyard sourcing, Burt and Ed created legendary wines, bringing world-class recognition to the Russian River Valley and propelling Williams Selyem into the spotlight as an icon.

Vineyard Highlights

Allen and Rochioli are two of the vineyards that we have worked with since the 1980s and are synonymous with Williams Selyem. Farmed by Tom Rochioli, they are perfectly situated in the Middle Reach of the Russian River Valley. When the 1985 Williams Selyem Rochioli won the sweepstakes at the California State Fair, Williams Selyem—an unheard-of boutique winery—and the Rochioli Vineyard were both vaulted into the spotlight.

Planted 55 years ago, Cohn is one of the older Pinot Noir vineyards we source from. Perched high above Westside Road, nestled in the hills over Mill Creek Road, Burt and Ed made wine from this vineyard until 1993 and I brought it back to the portfolio in 2016. These old vines have a sense of place through decades of adaptation and often have unparalleled concentration and precision.

Two of our own Estate vineyards can be found in the fall release. The Williams Selyem Estate and Lewis MacGregor Estate vineyards, planted on the west side and east side of the Russian River respectively, produce wines that are compellingly indicative of their opposing locations.

We have been working with Ferrington since the early 1990s and it is a benchmark Anderson Valley wine. Focused acidity and bright red fruits perfectly complement each other in this grand cru terroir.

The true Sonoma Coast wines of Coastlands, Hirsch, Precious Mountain show amazing track records of ageability, and they are some of our rarest wines due to limited yields and production. The 2023 vintage of Coastlands will be our last, as the fruit is no longer available to Williams Selyem. Don’t miss your chance to secure this remarkable wine while you still can.

Introducing a New Heritage Zinfandel

We are pleased to announce an additional Zinfandel bottling from the famed Carlisle Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. Originally planted in 1927, it was the Pelletti home and vineyard until Kendall and Mike Officer purchased it and renamed it Carlisle Vineyard. Planted to mostly Zinfandel, interplanted mixed black varieties create an incredibly complex wine. Elegant and classy, this Zinfandel shows the finesse of this highly acclaimed Russian River Valley Zinfandel terroir with the Williams Selyem style. This is a very small production wine that is already earning acclaim.

Great wine does not exist without great vineyard sites. Through sheer dedication by our growers, characterful and outstanding wines can be made. We are constantly seeking out new sites to work with that offer unique personalities and flavors. While selecting from these offerings can feel like a delightful challenge, we invite you to explore new vineyards and discover something unexpected. The upcoming 2025 vintage will mark Williams Selyem’s 45^th anniversary. What began as a dream and a hobby for Burt Williams and Ed Selyem in a garage in Fulton, California, has earned its status as a benchmark California Pinot Noir. I hope you enjoy the wines as much as I and the winemaking team enjoy making them.

Cheers!

Jeff Mangahas

VP/Director of Winemaking

Vintage Summary

We experienced a welcome sense of normality in 2023, after tumultuous weather patterns during previous growing seasons, including drought conditions, heat events, and hail. This vintage began auspiciously with historical average rainfall and modest temperatures at the start of bud break. Ample sunshine and early heat resulted in even growth of the canopies, creating uniformity and balance as the vines entered the flowering cycle. While it was similarly cool at the outset of 2011, the 2023 heat units built slowly, and the weather was ideal by May. The flowering period was quick, and the fruit set bountiful. The weather was perfect in June and July, with a few heat spikes that kept the plants healthy and sustained. Mid-season crop adjustments were necessary to ensure good vine balance as veraison approached. With the cooler start to the vintage and the normal fog pattern of August, the ripening cycle slowed, and the crop achieved ideal hang time for tannin development at modest sugars. Across the board, the wines exhibit terrific purity of character with excellent tannin resolution. While hot and dry years can create wines of shocking intensity, these cooler vintages showcase the elegant style of Williams Selyem.

– Jeff Mangahas, VP/Director of Winemaking

Tasting Notes

All prices unchanged from last year

PINOT NOIR – ELEGANT

2023 Allen Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.8% alc., Russian River Valley
Alpine strawberry and red cherry notes jump from the glass in this Westside Road classic. First released in 1988, the Allen Vineyard Pinot Noir remains one of the longest standing bottlings in the Williams Selyem portfolio. The site is nearly perfectly situated in the Russian River Valley with a hillside aspect across Westside Road from Rochioli Vineyard. This magical location enjoys the confluence of cool breezes and rocky well-drained, iron-rich soils. Classic Pinot Noir character shines through in this delicately balanced wine that exhibits perfect balance with a wonderful mineral streak. A wine that showcases the best of the Russian River Valley and the poise and elegance of the Williams Selyem style.

2023 Williams Selyem Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
$125, 14% alc., Russian River Valley
Delicately perfumed with red fruits and wood spices, the Williams Selyem Estate showcases superb balance and elegance. Grown on iron rich soils on a gentle slope above Westside Road, there is a wonderful mineral and earthy element reminiscent of terra cotta. The classic description of sarsaparilla for Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is also evident in the aroma. Beautifully balanced on the palate, the tannins are refined, the acid harmonious, and the finish is minerally and elegant. A classic in the making.

PINOT NOIR – MEDIUM BODIED

2023 Vista Verde Vineyard Pinot Noir
$72,13.7% alc., San Benito County
The nose is immediately recognizable as something different as the Vista Verde Vineyard is the only site we source from that is planted on limestone. Aromas of plum and berry abound and are complexed with hints of flinty minerals. Wood spices and citrus add further complexity and layers. Similarly on the palate the flavors showcase a chalky, mineral impression with berry fruits interlaced. Refined and smooth tannins make this a unique wine reminiscent of the limestone driven wines of Burgundy.

2023 Bucher Vineyard Pinot Noir
$78, 13.9% alc., Russian River Valley
Notes of raspberry are juxtaposed with earthy undertones that typify this unique terroir. The multifaceted profile in this wine relates to the complex exposures, soils, and clones planted within. Hints of sous bois and wood spices add layers to the intriguing aromas. The palate showcases raspberry fruit flavors along with hints of earth and fresh herbs. The tannins are polished and harmonize with the acidity to offer a Zen-like texture.

2023 Calegari Vineyard Pinot Noir
$78, 14.1% alc., Russian River Valley
This site epitomizes classic Russian River Valley aromatics with bright red fruit character. Along with red fruits, the wine is highlighted with dried rose petals, cinnamon, and dried citrus peel. The palate has a wonderful tangerine streak with a burst of cranberry and cherry flavors. Medium grained tannins give a sensation of black tea and the wine concludes with a subtle gravelly, mineral-driven finish.

2023 Ferrington Vineyard Pinot Noir
$78, 14.1% alc., Anderson Valley
The Ferrington Vineyard is a classic site, producing wines that are lithe and focused. Located in the southernmost section of the Anderson Valley, it experiences dramatic diurnal temperature shifts with warm days and extremely cold nights. The nature of these conditions preserves the typical red fruit character of the wine while maintaining the acidity. Aromas and flavors of cranberry, red cherry, and currant mix with hints of tangerine and bergamot. The medium bodied tannins carry through and conclude with a satisfying, earthy finish.

2023 Foss Vineyard Pinot Noir
$78, 13.8% alc., Russian River Valley
Creamy berry fruit aromas are alluring and inviting. Wood spices perfectly complement the aromas and add depth. Purple flowers and fresh herbs further highlight this otherwise brooding wine. The site offers a complex array of flavors, with its sloping hillsides and a mixture of loam and gravel. Voluptuous on the entry, the palate explodes with dark berry fruits in the mid-palate with hints of underbrush and allspice on the finish. The tannins are seamlessly integrated and give a sense of roundness and richness that is appealing today but will age gracefully in the near term.

2023 Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.8% alc., Russian River Valley
Singular and unique, the aroma of Rochioli Riverblock is unmistakable. A beautifully balanced wine with dark fruits interlaced with savory fresh herbs. Wines are reminiscent of places and Riverblock’s situation on the bank of the Russian River, with the smell of wild fennel, underbrush, and tree bark, defines the aroma of the wine. Flavors of dark red fruits and plums are mixed with wood spices and earthy, resinous flavors. The extremely refined tannin structure is a conundrum as the wine harbors excellent structure but remains lithe and airy. Not to be missed.

2023 Lewis MacGregor Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
$125, 14.1% alc., Russian River Valley
Named in honor of John Dyson’s grandfather, who was instrumental in John’s journey and love of agriculture, the Lewis MacGregor Estate Vineyard is located on the east side of the Russian River and enjoys a sunny, hilltop exposition on well drained, rocky soils. Planted to an outstanding array of Pinot Noir clones, the wine is showy yet retains harmony and balance. Aromas of a basket of warm summer fruits come to mind with hints of tea, citrus, and wood spices. Predominantly Pommard and Swan, the wine has tremendous concentration owing to the small berries but is leavened by perfect acidity and freshness. Fresh herbs on the nose and palate offer further complexity from this outstanding site.

PINOT NOIR – FULL BODIED

2023 Weir Vineyard Pinot Noir
$78, 14.1% alc., Yorkville Highlands
Known to require time in the bottle to fully blossom, Weir’s 2023 vintage is already showing signs of greatness. Delightfully aromatic and reminiscent of grenadine and strawberry, the wine highlights structure with a mineral driven finish while maintaining a juicy and refreshing palate. A recent retrospective tasting of Weir at a Masterclass at the Williams Selyem Estate highlighted how gracefully the wine ages. Owing to the rocky terrain, the tannins, while refined and polished, are substantial and this wine benefits from cellaring.

2023 Coastlands Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.4% alc., Sonoma Coast
This site epitomizes the wild Sonoma Coast profile with brooding notes both fruit and savory. Situated on the rugged coastline where redwood trees abound and sea breezes help temper the growing conditions, the wine exudes complexity. The aromas are utterly captivating, with pomegranate and black cherry combining with hints of tree bark, cedar, and underbrush. Fresh acidity in the mouth owing to the cool site keeps the wine lively on the palate as the flavors of citrus, fruit, and cedar linger. Sadly, this is our last year working with the fruit from this vineyard, so don’t pass up this outstanding offering.

2023 Cohn Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.8% alc., Sonoma County
Nestled in the hills high above Westside Road, this idyllic setting surrounded by redwood trees and oaks is a near perfect climate to make distinctive, ethereal Pinot Noir. Planted in 1970, it is one of the oldest Pinot Noir vineyards in the area. The wine is as stunning as the landscape and its rocky, iron rich soils with multiple exposures,. Dark and brooding, notes of black cherry, five spice, and sous bois abound in the aromatics. Hints of citrus and sandalwood add intrigue. The flavors envelop the palate from start to finish with a complex array of fruit and earthiness simultaneously. Powerful and compelling, this wine has it all.

2023 Hirsch Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.7% alc., Sonoma Coast
First nosing of this wine transposes you to a different place. Slightly reticent, it requires some oxygen to fully blossom in the glass. The scent of wild herbs, sous bois, and dark fruits abound in this complex aromatic profile. Compact and tight, the tannins tell the story of the rugged Sonoma Coast. More savory than fruit driven, the wine has terrific concentration with a saline-like finish that is utterly compelling.

2023 Savoy Vineyard Pinot Noir
$110, 13.6% alc., Anderson Valley
Layered and complex, the aromatics showcase the unique Savoy Vineyard. Located deep in the Anderson Valley, near Hendy Woods, it is perfectly situated with a sunny exposition, but in a rather cool and windy site. Slow and methodical ripening brings tremendous layers to the nose and palate. Notes of black cherry, blue fruits, and hints of fresh herbs mix with allspice and nutmeg. A touch of orange peel adds further intrigue. Equally as complex on the palate, the black cherry and blue fruit flavors mix with citrus and tea-like elements. The wine builds impressively with fine-grained tannins and a firm punctuated finish. Savoy is a grand cru level site and has been a terrific addition to our Anderson Valley portfolio of wines.

2023 Precious Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir
$150, 14% alc., Sonoma Coast
Savory and brooding, Precious Mountain Pinot Noir is an enigma. Perched high up on the Sonoma Coast, the aromas and flavors are all about wild herbs, dusty and dark fruits. Wood spices complement the nose, along with hints of cedar and terra cotta. At first taste, the tannic nature of this rugged site shows through and melds into cherry fruits and citrus peel. Minerals and crushed rocks are highlighted on the finish. As usual, this wine will require some patience to fully reach its potential.

ZINFANDEL

2023 Bacigalupi Vineyard Zinfandel
$72, 14.9% alc., Russian River Valley
Highly aromatic notes of mulberry, plum, and loganberry combine with subtle cracked pepper. Accents of summer ripe red fruit shine through to offer some levity to the brooding nature of this wine. Tangy and refreshing on the palate, it showcases the beauty of Russian River Valley Zinfandel at its best with warm days and cool nights to preserve the freshness. Layered and complex, on the palate the tannins are well managed to offer firmness in the middle palate while finishing with finesse.

2023 Carlisle Vineyard Zinfandel
$72, 15% alc., Russian River Valley
In our pursuit of presenting new and exciting wines, we are pleased to introduce this Zinfandel from the Carlisle Vineyard, situated in the heart of old vine Zinfandel country off Willowside Road, near Papera and our Saitone Estate. Planted predominantly to Zinfandel, this is a true field blend with many other mixed black varieties interspersed. All harvested at once, the complexity is compelling. The nose leads with hints of mountain blueberry and a mixture of red and black fruits. Hints of anise and five-spice give an ethereal perfume. Wonderful fruit on the entry is perfectly balanced with wood spices and framed with mouth-watering acidity and tannins. Poised and elegant, this is old vine Zinfandel at its best.

2023 Saitone Estate Vineyard Zinfandel
$72, 15.2% alc., Russian River Valley
Brambles and boysenberry immediately jump from the glass in this old vine classic. Planted in 1895, the Saitone Vineyard epitomizes Russian River Valley from the Piner-Olivet region with dark fruits, tangy acidity, and an unrivaled depth of flavor and complexity. Hints of lavender add another layer to this kaleidoscope. The tannins are robust but polished in classic Williams Selyem style. A serious Zinfandel that can be paired with a wide array of robust foods.

CHARDONNAY

2023 Allen Vineyard Chardonnay
$68, 14.1% alc., Russian River Valley
The purity of Chardonnay shines through in this glorious offering. Green pear and apple notes jump from the glass and combine with crushed minerals and delicate white flowers. Subtle notes of wood spice and nuttiness from the sur lie aging add a mid-bass tone that adds intrigue. The wine starts out voluminous and rich, but the laser focused acidity carries the pear and apple flavors all the way to a tangerine like finish. The palate is left with a mineral-like impression that lingers wonderfully on the palate.

2023 Drake Estate Vineyard Chardonnay
$68, 13.5% alc., Russian River Valley
Spiced notes of Meyer lemon peel along with scents of yellow apple and pear typify this wine. Hints of shiso and tarragon show the cool climate of the Drake Vineyard. Located in the far west region of the Russian River Valley, the ripening of this Chardonnay is slow and methodical, allowing for complexity to be achieved. The entry is weighty, and the wine has incredible saltiness, with a saline character that transitions to minerals on the finish. Green pear flavors accompany hints of tangerine along with a spicy Meyer lemon peel sensation.

2023 Lewis MacGregor Estate Vineyard Chardonnay
$68, 14.2% alc., Russian River Valley
Precision and elegance are the best words to describe this outstanding Chardonnay. Situated on a rocky knoll, this block of old Wente Chardonnay shines. Yellow pear and pear skin mix with subtle lemon and lime notes. Hints of fresh herbs add an interesting counterpoint to the nose. Flavors of yellow apple and pear are discernible on the palate, but this wine is about concentration and verve. Terrific acidity carries the flavors all the way to the back of the palate where the wine finishes with crushed minerals.

2023 Williams Selyem Estate Vineyard Chardonnay
$70, 14% alc., Russian River Valley
Initial aromas immediately capture the senses with a melody of jasmine flowers, stone fruit blossom, and hints of musk melon. Layered and complex, notes of lime and stone fruit mix with tangerine and rose oil. Oily and rich on the palate, the wine is compelling with incredible precision and weight. Flavors of passion fruit mix with tangerine and melon. The underlying tannin structure offers nice closure to the palate. Planted to 18 different Chardonnay clones in the same field, this wine pays tribute to old field blends often seen in old vine Zinfandel vineyards, which lead to wines of stunning complexity.

Important Dates

SEPTEMBER 7: Release closes
SEPTEMBER 29 – OCTOBER 12: California Pickup, Williams Selyem Estate
OCTOBER 31 – NOVEMBER 2: New York Pickup, Millbrook Winery
NOVEMBER 3: Shipping Begins

Ordering Information

Shipping

• Unless otherwise specified or specifically requested, our main ship date is Monday, November 3, and “hot state” orders (AL, AZ, FL, GA, LA, NC, SC, TN, TX) will begin shipping on Monday, November 10.
• Some states do not permit direct wine shipments, or they may limit the amount of wine we can ship to you. Please see our website for more details.
• We require a valid shipping address (no PO Boxes) where someone 21+ years of age is available to sign for the package during regular business hours.

Wine Pickup

CALIFORNIA

• Wine orders will be available for pickup at the WS Estate from Monday, September 29 through Sunday, October 12. Please select the ‘CA Pickup’ option and we will reach out to schedule your pickup.

THIRD-PARTY PICKUP

• WS does not apply a shipping/handling charge for CA Pickup going to the third-party vendors. Handling fees may be added by the vendor; see your contract or contact them directly for more info.
• You must establish an account with the third-party vendor of your choice prior to order pickup.
• Please also note that these vendors do not allow pickups from their physical locations.

NEW YORK

• The dates for the Pickup Event in Millbrook, NY are Friday, October 31 – Sunday, November 2. If you select this option, we will communicate event details with you via email as we get closer to the event.
  Address: 26 Wing Road, Millbrook, NY 12545; Phone: 845-677-8383, ext. 21
  Email: millbrookwinery@millwine.com; Website: www.millbrookwine.com