Winemaker Notes
-IWC
This sensuous libation has that "je ne sais quoi" that makes Pinot Noir sexy. Elegant, balanced, and intriguing, it graciously says "hello" on the first sip and then captures your attention with a confident mouth feel. Bright raspberry, cranberry fruit finds support in good, mouthwatering acidity. Behind the forward fruit character of strawberry jam and cherry hard candy lie a touch of tea with citrus rind and notes of white pepper and damp earth. This wine invites you to take her to dinner and encourages you to get to know her better. We recommend you take her advice.
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.