2021 Hook & Ladder "Third Alarm Reserve" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

2021 Hook & Ladder "Third Alarm Reserve" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

Hook & Ladder developed from one of Sonoma’s most influential wine families. Cecil and Christine De Loach began farming Russian River Valley vineyards in the early 1970s, eventually becoming leaders in establishing the region’s identity and appellation. After selling their original De Loach Vineyards in 2003, they launched Hook & Ladder Winery on Olivet Road, naming it after Cecil’s 17-year career as a San Francisco firefighter. The estate farms more than 148 acres across the Russian River Valley, giving winemaker Jason De Loach access to a wide range of microclimates and varieties. This “spice rack” of sites allows for small-lot, site-specific bottlings that emphasize balance, purity, and regional character. Production focuses on handpicked fruit, sustainable farming, and careful parcel selection. The winery works with classic Russian River varieties including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. Their approach highlights the diversity of the appellation through limited-production wines that reflect the valley’s mix of fog, gravelly soils, and cool-climate structure.