Sequana Sarmento Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008
Pinot Noir
from Russian River, California
winemaker's notes:
Pinot Noir specialist James MacPhail has complete control over the creation of Sequana's single-vineyard wines. Grapes were hand-picked and hand-sorted, then cold-soaked prior to fermentation to maximize flavor and color extraction.
In small open-topped tanks, each block was fermented separately, using primarily native yeasts. Other lots were fermented with yeasts unique to each individual lot. Hand punch-downs extracted and elevated the Pinot Noir flavors and the wine was aged sur lie in French oak barrels for 11 months.
Displaying the classic qualities of the Santa Lucia Highlands, this silky Pinot Noir has pretty floral and citrus aromas. Warm Asian spices accompany bright, lasting flavors of citrus, rose petal and cherry.
About the Vineyard
Winegrower James MacPhail describes this setting as "nothing short of spectacular." The Sarmento Vineyard sits on benchlands of ancient, tilted alluvial soils topped with rock-studded sandy loam. Grapes for the Sarmento Pinot Noir come from two separate 10-year-old vineyard blocks – each with a unique clone. This family-owned, sustainably-farmed vineyard benefits from its southeast exposure and cool climate, allowing the grapes to ripen fully.
critical acclaim:
"Medium ruby color; deep cinnamon, spiced plum and cherry aromas; deep, complex, focused plum and cherry flavors with cardamom and sandalwood notes; some fine tannins; sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Deep and complex with terrific, many layered flavors. Needs time to open up but worth the wait!"
93 Points
PinotReport
"Winemaker James MacPhail brings his touch to this ripe, delicious Pinot Noir. It explodes in raspberries and cherries, but it’s no more fruit bomb. Shows fine acidity and even a dusting of tannins that provide structural integrity. Really nice now, and should develop over the next 4–6 years. "
91 Points
Wine Enthusiast
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