Introducing Freeman's fabulous 2012s

'If every year were like 2012, there would be a lot of happy growers, winemakers and Pinot Noir consumers.' - Ken Freeman

Ken and Akiko Freeman always believed California to be capable of producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay every bit as complex as Burgundy. In 2001, after visiting over 300 vineyards across California, they set out to prove it, and opened Freeman Winery. For a while, Freeman was obscure; Andrew discovered them during his off-piste wanderings around the Golden State, and we have stocked them since the 2006 vintage. More recently, interest has exploded; the delightful, poised Ryo-Fu Chardonnay was recently served at a White House State Dinner. Ken and Akiko believe passionately in quality, and despite the temptations brought on by success still keep total production below 5000 cases; we are proud to be the only UK wine merchant with any allocation.

The vineyards are in cool climate hillside sites in Russian River Valley and some remoter, rugged spots on Sonoma Coast, where winds and fogs help the Pinot Noir feel at home. Chardonnay also thrives here; focusing on vineyards in cooler sites, with some very old vines, and then avoiding any new oak, makes for a more delicate and subtle style.

On Sonoma Coast, a cool 2012 summer led to a late harvest, and a chance for the grapes to develop deeper flavour complexity. In Russian River Valley, 2012 conditions were textbook perfect; everything happened at the right time, resulting in a healthy, high quality crop, and wines that are both a joy to drink now and sure to age well for some years to come. See for yourself; not only do we have four wines from the 2012 Freeman vintage on tasting today, but we have also put together a 2012 Freeman mixed case with great savings. /NT

To place an order, click on the wine or case name below, reply to this email, call 020 7638 5998, or come to the shop