Winemaker Notes
The long harvest provided a veritable smorgasbord of grape ripeness and maturity, all of which enhanced the character of this Pinot, adding richness and layers of flavor. The resulting wine is redolent of cherries and berries with a touch of earthiness and orange peel.
Pinot is considered by many to be the most versatile red wine and it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods. Start with anything grilled or smoked. Try it with blackened salmon, pork tenderloin braised with herbs, pan seared chicken, or mushroom risotto accented with truffle oil.
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.