Emeritus Vineyards

Emeritus Vineyards is one of the most quietly outstanding Pinot Noir producers in Russian River Valley. Founded in 1999 by Brice Jones — who simultaneously ran Sonoma-Cutrer before a management buyout — Emeritus focuses with single-minded intensity on Pinot Noir from two estate vineyards in the heart of RRV.

The Hallberg Ranch, planted in 1986 with Dijon clone material, is the older of the two properties — its mature vines producing some of the most complex and age-worthy Pinot Noirs in the valley. The younger Pinot Hill Vineyard, planted in 1999, adds a contrasting expression from a different soil and elevation profile.

Emeritus wines are made with minimal intervention — native yeast fermentation, minimal racking, and careful use of oak to let the vineyard speak. The results are Pinot Noirs of real structure and aging potential that reward cellaring in a way that many California Pinots don't.

Emeritus Vineyards presents a featured lineup that includes Hallberg Ranch Pinot Noir, Pinot Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, and Hallberg Ranch Chardonnay. Together, these bottles provide a focused introduction to the varieties, vineyard sources, and style that define the winery's current portfolio.