Winemaker Notes
Ours is a regional expression of Carneros Pinot Noir sourced from select vineyards on the Napa side of this AVA. This is a seleccion masal Pinot Noir, not meant to express a single clone or vineyard. The goal of this wine is to retain a varietal correctness with a sense of place. We really enjoy Carneros Pinot Noir, because although the fruit presents itself readily, there is an undercurrent of ‘Pinot funk’, and earthy element that adds complexity both on the nose and the palate. A slightly higher percentage of new oak was used (33%) to stand up to the richness and weight of the concentrated 2015 vintage. The oak adds both to the nose and the texture of the wine, but still allows the fruit to be front and center. Dark garnet in color, the 2015 offers layered notes of plum, dark cherry and cola spice. With moderate acidity, weight and density, this wine has outstanding depth and length.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Fresh red berries here with orange rind and citrus peel. Medium to full body, pretty acidity and a medium finish. Drink now. Screw cap.
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Wine Enthusiast
This wine offers a balanced celebration of plum, dark cherry and cola spice that’s velvety and textured. With moderate acidity keeping it fresh in the glass, it offers depth and length, as well as a slight tease of orange peel. Editors’ Choice.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2015 Starmont Winery and Vineyards Pinot Noir offers excellent richness and texture on the palate. TASTING NOTES: This wine features bright red cherries, earth, and spice in its aromas and flavors. Pair it with grilled salmon accented with a crushed berry sauce. (Tasted: July 28, 2020, San Francisco, CA)
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.