Armida Russian River Pinot Noir 1999

The deep ruby red color and silken texture of our Pinot Noir are woven within layers of spice and clove surrounded by luscious cherry and plum. Soft tannins bring together all the elements into a graceful finish with undertones of creamy oak and hints of chocolate. For our red wines, Winemaker Michael Loykasek uses the technique of extended maceration to draw the full depth of flavor and color from our fruit. Leaving the whole clusters to bathe in their juices for an extended period of time before pressing allows the juice to absorb layers of complexity from the skins of the berries. The color intensifies, and the tannic structure is enhanced giving the Pinot Noir backbone and character. This method of whole cluster fermentation preserves the inherent delicate qualities for which the varietal is known. The 1999 vintage promises to be one of our best yet, exemplified by this silky, fruit laden Pinot Noir.