This is the second vintage of the Estate Pinot noir and was cropped at less than 1 ton per acre. The wine beautifully reflects our unique growing site situated at 3,000 ft elevation on chalky volcanic soil. The high elevation allows for cooler days and much lower over-all heat accumulation throughout the growing season. The cooler temperature enabled the Pinot noir to ripen slowly, which is necessary to develop and retain its varietal and terroir driven characteristics. The grapes were hand-picked, sorted, and underwent a 3 day cold soak followed by a slow fermentation. The wine was aged on its solids for 12 months and was bottled unfined and unfiltered as to minimize the handling of the fragile grape variety. Our vineyard granted us with a very delicate, light bodied, yet balanced and complex Pinot noir. The bouquet of ripe strawberry, perfume, and vanilla bean is delightfully counterbalanced by earthy notes reminiscent of smoke, cedar, and mushroom. The palate is fruit forward with hints of earth and is supported by a firm acidity.
