2019 Pinot Noir, Clone 667
Carneros, Napa

Awards: 2022 SF Chronicle Wine Competition – Best of Class

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 devel-op. 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 varietal

TECHNICAL DATA

Planted: 2002
Elevation: 10 feet
Soils: Cole/Haire: Clayey, silty loam
Irrigation Water: Artesian groundwater from estate well
Harvested: September 28, 2019
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 14.3%
Total Acidity: .570 gm/100ml
pH: 3.52
Barrels Produced: 6.5 (168 cases)

TASTING NOTE

Bright and lighter ruby red. Clone 667 shows the more feminine side of Pinot Noir, with violet, intense rose petal, and just ripe raspberry. The palate is subtle and shows ethereal and floral characteristics enhanced by a supple core of tannins and a fresh acidity peaking on the long finish. Very Burgundian.  Enjoy now after a decanting, would cellar 6 to 10 years.

Pair with pâté de foie gras and brie for an hors d’oeuvre, or with a wild mushroom risotto entrée.