Cole Ranch is less than one quarter of a square mile in area and its terroir is distinctive enough to make it America’s smallest American Viticultural Area (AVA). The 2021 Rootdown Cole Ranch R2 Riesling is one of the most enjoyable and distinctive American expressions of the grape. The dry farmed vines were planted in 1971 and are head trained. The grapes are harvested by hand and treaded by foot in their picking bins before being transferred to the press. Fermentation was carried out by native yeasts in old Burgundy barrels and concrete eggs, yet only achieved 12% abv while maintaining bright acidity leading to a crisp, dry finish. The R2 Riesling is a refreshing and compelling example of thoughtful farming in America’s smallest AVA.