The 2009 growing season offered picture-perfect growing conditions in the Russian River Valley. A relatively dry winter was followed by a dry spring, which naturally limited canopy growth and yields. Summer offered consistently even temperatures with a classic Russian River Valley mix of cool, foggy mornings and afternoon sunshine. A moderate heat event in mid-September brought sustained temperatures in the 90s for the better part of two weeks. This timely heat allowed the fruit to develop pure, focused flavors without losing natural acidity.