Tracey & John Skupny established Lang & Reed with the expressed goal “to explore the distinct charms of Cabernet Franc and to craft wines that are both expressive and enjoyable to drink.” Their appreciation of Cabernet Franc came from years of experience as sommeliers. Their appreciation of Napa Valley’s vineyards drew them to the region and they moved to Napa Valley in 1984.
They established Lang & Reed in 1993 and named the winery for their sons, Jerzy Lang and J Reed. John Skupny is the winemaker and Reed is also a winemaker — his focus set on Chenin Blanc. Lang & Reed’s portfolio of wines includes Cabernet Franc sourced from vineyards in Napa Valley, Alexander Valley and North Coast, along with Chenin Blanc and Rosé of Cabernet Franc. Lang & Reed remains a family operation.
Recently Reed Skupny and his wife Megan established a brand of their own — Rockhound. Also part of Rockhound is Hawkbox. Both wines are available on the Lang & Reed website.
We received both wines as tasting samples.
2022 Lang & Reed Chenin Blanc, Mendocino — medium yellow with aromas of ripe pears and beeswax. Flavors include ripe pears and citrus zest with juicy acidity in a round, medium body. 270 cases made. 13% abv. SRP $35
Chenin Blanc is sourced from a 40-year-old vineyard on the Talmage Bench in Mendocino County. The wine fermented in a combination of French oak and stainless steel barrels. Part of the wine was fermented with native yeasts and part was inoculated with organic yeasts. The wine was stirred bi-weekly until two weeks before bottling in August 2023. This Chenin Blanc is bright and flavorful and round and luxurious all at the same time.
2021 Rockhound Pinot Noir, Radian Sta. Rita Hills — dark translucent ruby with generous aromas of red and dark cherries, berry bramble and alfalfa hay. Flavors include ripe dark cherries, boysenberries and red cherry pie filling. Tannins are smooth in a medium body. Warmth lingers on the finish. 115 cases made. 15.3% abv. SRP $90
Pinot Noir clones 115, 667 and 777 were co-fermented. This wine is described on the Lang & Reed website as “A ripe wine not for the faint of heart” and I think that description is accurate. If you enjoy a big style of Pinot Noir this wine is right up your alley. The Rockhound brand was launched early in 2023.
The Lang & Reed Tasting Salon is located on Spring Street in downtown St. Helena, just across the street from Goose & Gander. Spring House is a quaint Victorian with space for tastings inside and outdoors on the front porch. Check the Lang & Reed website for details.
Thanks to &co. pr for organizing our tasting.
Cheers!
