Winemaker Notes
Our 2008 Pinot Noir, Carneros, opens with ripe plum, raspberry and blackberry aromas that are perfumed with rose nuances. The rich fruit character is echoed on the palate, picking up notes of nuttiness from oak aging. Fine tannins structure the wine, while bright acidity nicely balances the medium-bodied flavors and gives a bright raspberry flourish to the finish.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.