Winemaker Notes
Try this wine with pan seared duck breast, roasted quail or grilled lamb. Notable side dishes would be vegetables with a sweet profile such as: carrots, beets, caramelized onions and bell peppers. Pairs beautifully with a wide variety of hard or soft cheeses accompanied by fall fruits, dried fruits and compotes.
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.