Madson Wines, Pinot Noir - California, 2023
Fast Facts:
Winemaker(s): Cole Thomas
Region: Santa Cruz Mountains -> California -> USA
Varietal(s): Pinot Noir
Terroir: Decomposed sandstone, Monterey Bay influence keeping the cool and mineral intact.
Serving Temp: 45°F
Jack of all trades dirt man, Cole Thomas came to vino through his earlier years as an organic vegetable farmer, an edible landscaper, and manager of a seed saving project, Demeter Seed Library. Viticulture connected all his love for agriculture into one beautiful thing when he started working at Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard. From there, he went to Australia and New Zealand to work harvests, learning natural winemaking at Prophet's Rock that would shape his entire approach back home.
In 2018, Cole launched Madson, his paternal grandmother's Danish maiden name, honoring her life, journey, and everyone's pursuit of belonging. Cole and his wife Abbey together manage over 100 tiny vineyards across the Santa Cruz Mountains. That insider connection gives them access to some of the most cherished hillside sites in the area.
The 2023 blend comes from several small vineyards tucked among redwoods at elevations from 400 to 2600 feet. Cole ferments 70-100% whole cluster using semi-carbonic maceration for that ultra-fresh, fruit-forward character with silky tannins, then ages 9 months in neutral French oak. The result? Zesty, darling Pinot that feels more Burgundian than California.
Why'd we pick it?
The Santa Cruz Mountains produce very special fruit, and because of the intensity to farm, these vineyards require more precision and love. This unique terroir is very much California...while simultaneously not at all. It's like a familiar feeling while also reminiscent of somewhere far away. Only about 80 small wineries exist in this massive AVA, and Madson is genuinely a hidden gem. Madson's wines run on the super pricey end, but we got a cool deal to feature them in club. So drink up, my loves!
Field Notes
- Tastes like: Cranberry and pomegranate with damp forest floor, eucalyptus, and garden herbs. Nutty sesame and finishing minerality with delicate tannins.
- Serve it slightly chilled, say 60°F or so. Pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes if it's at room temp.
- Food Pairings: I personally really want to eat a mushroom risotto with this guy. That Burgundian nature makes me feel all earthy. Or a grilled salmon bowls with edamame, garlicky kale, loads of sesame and cukes. Earthy, umami-rich foods is the vibe! A beautiful winter squash situation would also crush.
