Winemaker Notes
Beautiful garnet hue. The aroma suggests a medley of strawberry and raspberry with a slight hint of toasty oak. Medium body and lively on the palate, the crisp natural acidity lifts these aromas and provides a long elegant finish. Aged one year in 100% new Burgundian cooperage and another year in the bottle, the 2013 Pinot Noir is drinking very well, with ample natural acidity to develop for years to come. This Pinot’s expression and balance combine to create a wine of nuance, finesse and beauty.
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.