Winemaker Notes
Densely concentrated, with cheerful aromatics of pomegranate, red cherries, vanilla bean, and baking spice. The mouth-feel is supple, with delicious, concentrated fruit flavors of strawberry rhubarb pie and cranberries followed by secondary, savory notes of fresh herbs. A reliable daily drinker, this sumptuous Pinot is a delightful expression of cool-climate Pinot Noir.
This bright and balanced wine has both bright acidity and vibrant fruit character, which makes it an easy match for wood-fired pizza or dishes that feature mushrooms, like truffled risotto with aged pecorino.
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.