Winemaker Notes
-W&S
St. Clair Pinot Noir is defined by an elegant and refined character rather than profound tannin. Deep, rich aromas of leather, tar and cherry are touched with the sweet embrace of toast. Lightness at first in the mouth builds up with fresh-crushed berries on the long finish. It pares exquisitely with roasts,particularly lamb. Cellar up to 2005.
Professional Ratings
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.