Clones

A clone (from the Greek word for twig) is a genetically distinct sub-type of a grape variety created by taking cuttings from an original mother vine with desirable characteristics and propagating new, identical vines. Cloning became popular in the 1960s and early 70s, when growers propagated vines from their favorite vineyards. Old Wente clones were the original standard for Chardonnay, while Beringer and Martini were the first widely planted Pinot Noir clones. Pinot Noir mutates easily and has since generated more clones than any other grape variety.

Pinot Noir Clones/Selections

Pinot Noir Old School Clones:
  • Pommard — available in California for a number of years, and often works as a "stand-alone" clone. Wines from this clone are sometimes known for having a meaty, gamey edge.
  • Rochioli Selection
  • University of California at Davis (UCD) 4
  • Wente Clone
  • UCD 13 — a Martini clone with high-toned floral aromatics, black raspberry flavors, fairly hard tannins and slow ripening seeds.
  • UCD 15 — a workhorse clone used to make sparkling wines.
  • UCD 16
  • 2A — also known as the Wädenswil selection from Switzerland and planted quite significantly in both California and Oregon. This clone contributes exotic spice character and consistently good color.
  • 31 Roederer Selection — used for sparkling wine. Vines from this clone develop huge berries, and wines have elegant floral notes.
Pinot Noir Dijon Clones:
  • Clone113 — perhaps the most elegant of Pinot Noir clones, with perfumed aromatics. When properly managed, wines from this clone possess nice weight and body as well.
  • Clone 114 — an often-overlooked clone that contributes rich, dark softness, making it a great cohesive element to the final wine.
  • Clone 115 — by far the most widely planted of this clonal grouping, clone 115 works great on its own, and is a standout in our Pinot Noir program.
  • Clone 667 — typically perceived to be a structure clone, with very pure aromas and great persistence in the mouth.
  • Clone 777 — known for being very dark and rich; potentially appropriate to be produced on its own. This clone is a standout in our Pinot Noir program.
  • Dijon 828 — noted for its large, long and skinny clusters, this clone contributes deep color, focused sweet berry fruit flavors and excellent retention of acidity.
  • Calera clone — from the true Burgundian cuttings of Josh Jenson’s Mt. Harlan Vineyard.
Pinot Gris Clones
  • Clone 152 — consistently produces the lowest yields and the highest sugars. This clone adds roundness and length, with peach, melon, honey and fig flavors. Imported from Alsace.
  • Clone 146 — slightly greater yields and produces crisp, flinty wines with delicate floral aromas and grapefruit characters. Imported from Alsace.
Chardonnay Clones
  • Dijon 76 — ripens earlier and develops flavors more like those of white Burgundian wines, including tropical fruit and grapefruit.
  • Old Wente — small clusters with low yields, thick skins and large and small berries in the same cluster. Wines from this clone show an array of apple, citrus and spice character.