Outlier Pinot Noir 2014

In a quest for undiscovered Pinot Noir vineyards, winemaker Derek Rohlffs found four outstanding sources - a world-class vineyard in Anderson Valley’s “Deep End,” a high-elevation vineyard in Mendocino Ridge, a cool-climate vineyard in Sonoma Coast, and a hillside vineyard in Napa Carneros. As he explored these sites for his flagship Bravium label, he found that a blend of these vineyards was the perfect recipe for a true “outlier” wine. The wine gains complexity from its distinctive source sites, with the delicate floral and savory spice notes of Mendocino melding with the crisp acidity of the Sonoma Coast and bright, red fruit character from Carneros. Using the North Coast appellation gives Derek the ability to source the best fruit he can from multiple vineyards to create a wine that has all the characteristics of a varietally-correct Pinot Noir. The 2014 Outlier Pinot Noir possesses a brilliant ruby color and very clean aromas of wild strawberries and red cherries, with a slight hint of flowers and forest floor. A burst of ripe berry fruit flavors is joined by cherry cola, framed by a complex mocha spice note. Lithe and graceful, with mouth-coating fruit, silky tannins, and refreshing acidity. Complex and complete Pinot Noir, with great structure.