Ted Klopp’s ranch lies in an area of Russian River Valley Merry identifies as the “Golden Triangle,” a narrow expanse of land blessed with moderate climate and excellent drainage provided by sandy Goldridge soils. Located northwest of the Santa Rosa Plain, on the eastern slope of Laguna Ridge, Klopp Ranch borders the noteworthy vineyards of Dehlinger and Kistler.
Ted purchased his thirty-seven acre property in 1982. Between 1989 and 1999, he planted his vineyard in small blocks, seeking Merry’s advice from the outset. At her suggestion, Ted acquired budwood from Tom Dehlinger, including a field selection from Joseph Swan Vineyards and one of the Pommard clones. For the later plantings, Ted again consulted Merry who recommended three Dijon clones, 115, 667, and 777.
Merry and Ted have developed a close working partnership over the years. They regularly confer about the effect of vineyard cultural practices on Merry’s wine. “We both know what she is looking for, and I aim for her target,” Ted explains. Merry’s contract with Klopp Ranch rewards Ted’s practice of keeping yields low and in balance with vine vigor, thereby concentrating fruit character.
“Klopp Ranch gives me small-berry clusters with profuse dark fruit and blackberry aromas along with full, spicy flavors,” says Merry. “The forward fruit is intense while the lush texture is rich and expansive.”