Winemaker Notes
The first Pinot Noir from Fleur de California was produced in 1987, so this represents their 33rd vintage. In recent years they have shifted to using more fruit from their estate vineyards as well as the Haire Ranch. The resulting wine has complex flavors of Bing cherry, raspberry and peppercorn with earthy aromas that conjure forest floor and black tea. The wine spent 11 months aging in 20% new French oak, which enhances palate structure and adds length to the finish without masking the bright red fruit notes and varietal character that we strive to preserve.
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.