2018 Reserve Pinot Noir
Carneros, Napa

Awards: 2021 SF Chronicle Wine Competition – Silver Medal

The AVA of Los Carneros is a region covering 90 square miles, located alongside the low-lying hills of the intercoastal Mayacamas mountain range. Elevations of most vineyards range from sea level to top out at 400 feet in the foothills. The soils of the Carneros region are predominantly clay and very thin and shallow, often providing poor drainage and fertility. The fierce and persistent winds coming off the bay encourages the grapevines to struggle and retain moisture. While this aids in limiting crop tonnage, it can also delay the grapes from ripening sufficiently. In vintage years with a long, drawn out growing season that allow the grapes to ripen, intense and vivid flavors can develop. Our vineyard is fortunate to have its own artesian well, providing pure water for the grapes.

Los Carneros region is primarily associated with cool-climate varietals, such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as the sparkling wines made from those grapes.

TECHNICAL DATA

Planted: 2002
Elevation: 20 feet
Soil Composition: Cole/Haire – Clayey, silty, loam
Irrigation Water: Artesian groundwater from estate well
Harvested: October 5, 2018
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 14.7%
Total Acidity: .593 gm/100ml
pH: 3.54
Barrels Produced: 6

TASTING NOTE

Showcasing a deep cardinal red hue, our bold Reserve Pinot offers delightfully cool earthy scents at first swirl. Star anise and menthol tobacco present the cool side to start, while subtle under-tones of cola and clove warm it back up again. The palate does not disappoint, with sharp cherry, balanced baking spice, and a little horehound candy rolled in to round off the flavor profile. Slightly earthy tones of mushroom come forward as it opens. Full of surprises, this wine offers the best of both worlds, starting strongly and finishing with a lovely mildness lingering on the palate.

Pair with a wild chanterelle polenta, with goat cheese and herbs or a game ragú.