California Pinot Noir Takes Spotlight: A Unique Technique Lands it on Wine Spectator’s Top 10 List

A remarkable story unfolds from the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California, where two friends, Burt Williams and Ed Selyem, transitioned from wine enthusiasts to pioneers of Pinot Noir. In the 1970s, driven by a shared obsession with Burgundy wines, they embarked on a journey to create a comparable wine but faced financial constraints that forced them to think creatively. Using discarded dairy tanks for their winemaking process, they sought to craft something truly unique within a virtually unknown wine region.

Their aspirations culminated in the founding of Williams Selyem in 1981, marking the beginning of a brand that would elevate Russian River Pinot Noir to international acclaim. Fast forward nearly fifty years, and their wines not only secured a place on Wine Spectator’s Top 10 List but also brought the once-overlooked Russian River region into the limelight.

Jeff Mangahas, the current winemaker from the historic Burgundy producer Domaine Faiveley, now oversees Williams Selyem. With a background in molecular biology, Jeff was drawn to winemaking after tasting a bottling from Williams Selyem that ignited his passion in the industry. He embraced the legacy of Burt and Ed, preserving their innovative winemaking methods that include the continued use of dairy tanks, which allow for a more efficient and expressive fermentation process.

These dairy tanks, characterized by their unique shape and insulation, enhance the extraction of flavors and aromas, distinguishing Williams Selyem wines in terms of elegance and complexity. Jeff employs gentle foot treading to integrate various components of the grape, such as whole clusters, which add a depth of flavor that reflects the terroir of the Russian River Valley.

The dedication to quality at Williams Selyem persists, not just in the winemaking practices but also in the resulting wines. Each Pinot Noir, along with the estate’s robust portfolio that includes Chardonnay and Zinfandel, embodies a harmonious balance of intricate flavors, showcasing the rich diversity of their vineyard sites.

The continued drive toward extraordinary winemaking reflects the passion that began with Burt and Ed, and their story is a testament to how far dedication, innovation, and friendship can take one in the world of wine. Today, the wines continue to garner accolades, embodying the essence of California’s Pinot Noir legacy and compelling wine lovers around the globe.

For more about Williams Selyem, visit their official site.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!