The 2021 growing season was steady, leading to outstanding fruit quality at harvest. A warm and dry spring continued through May, with first blooms appearing in early June. Light rains alleviating drought stress combined with minimal summer heat spikes led to a well-paced and gentle ripening of the fruit. Gentle handling and de-stemming at the winery retained freshness and preserved the texture sought after in Pinot Noir. The grapes were fermented on the skins for 10-14 days at 80-90F, then gently pressed to tanks for settling. The wine was then aged in 15% new French oak for 8 months before being racked for blending and bottling.
2021 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
A swirl of the glass reveals a medium ruby hue. Complex flavors of red fruits, particularly dark cherry, are complemented by hints of graphite and clove. Underripe pomegranate accentuates this classic cool-climate Pinot Noir. Lighter in style with a mouthwatering character, persistent fruit lingers on the front-palate through a long finish.
VARIETAL | 100% Pinot Noir |
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APPELLATION | 100% Willamette Valley |
ALCOHOL | 13.9% |
SRP | $24.99 |
UPC | 8 56442 00560 4 |
Versatile and food-friendly, this Willamette Valley Pinot Noir pairs exceptionally with cranberry and goat cheese bites, eggplant pizza or seared duck breast with a pomegranate reduction.
“Aromas of chocolate cherries in tilled soil lead to a plethora of savory and bold notes. Cigar box, root beer, and black plum make for a concentrated, muscle-driven pinot noir. Its earthy nature is tempered by ripe black cherry and sandalwood, emphasizing a silky mouthfeel.”
92 POINTS, THE TASTING PANEL