Tasting Notes
Burgundy in color, this wine has intoxicating aromas of black fruit that softly opens up, allowing for hints of baking spices. This Russian River Pinot is rich in texture with perfectly balanced acidity and firm, bold tannins. The fruit was de-stemmed only so that whole berries were transferred to open top fermenters, to help capture bright fruit aromas and flavors. Once it hits your palate it expresses flavors of Bing cherry, plum, black currant, and savory spices. The wine finishes elegantly with lingering flavors of cherry, raspberry and cocoa powder. We're loving this!
Winemaking
The fruit was de-stemmed only so that whole berries were transferred to open top fermenters, to help capture bright fruit aromas and flavors. After 5 days of a cold soak the tanks were warmed which allowed the juice to ferment naturally. The tanks were punched down 2-3 times per day for 10 days allowing skin contact for color and flavor extraction. The wine was then drained off the skins and placed in 30% New French barrels and aged for 10 months.
Analysis
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Aging: 30% new French oak for 10 months
pH: 3.68
Alcohol: 13.9%
Production: 1500 cases
90 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass. The palate opens with cranberry, cherry fruit and wood spice dominate. Cherry and plum notes pump through with a medium-bodied texture. Smooth tannins and soft finish showcase its layered complexity.
92 Points
Aromas of red raspberry, jammed dark fruit, cinnamon spice and clove. Hints of sliced ripe plum, black tea and lavender oil adds to its complexity. Flavors of blueberry, elderberry, and cranberry are enhanced with oak spice and baking notes from the barrels. These flavors marry with soft tannins for a long and mouthwatering finish.
92 Points
Juicy blackberries and black cherries accented by mint and chocolate. Full-bodied, deeply colored, with a hint of white pepper, dried herbs and toasted bread. Delivers a substantial mid-palate of dark fruits, black tea, baked cherry, fruit preserves and licorice. Sophisticated and sumptuous. A great example of the varietal, brooding with depth and complexity. Notes of toast and oak, with integrated tannins and textural polish on the finish.
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