> 2006 Pinot Noir Private Reserve
2006 Pinot Noir Private Reserve
|
 The Vineyard
Our Vineyard is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation of Monterey County just west of the town of Gonzales. Our Reserve Pinot consists primarily of 115 & 777 clones from the Dijon selection imported from France in the mid 1990’s. Both clones are known for their contribution to the great reds of Burgundy. And also a La Tache clone.
The Vintage
Due to a warm and dry spell in February our grape vines came out of dormancy early signaling the start to the growing season. However, March saw two snowy days and below average temperatures that persisted until the middle of July. This slowed maturation in the vineyard to a snail’s pace delaying harvest until late October when we finally experienced our typical Indian summer.
Winemaking
Hand harvested fruit was delivered to the winery and about 15 percent was transferred by hand as whole clusters to the bottom of a one ton fermentor. The balance of the fruit was gently crushed on top of them and allowed to “cold soak” for upwards of four days prior to fermentation. After fermentation the wine was pressed into a combination of mostly new French oak barrels where it matured for 10 months.
Tasting Notes
This wine is elegant and refined with complex berry aromas and firm tannin structure. Black cherry, elderberries and violets accentuate the nose while toasty caramel is evident in the flavor, a result of 60% new French oak aging. This wine is structured so that it can be aged for 3 to 7 years. Pair it with moderately spiced foods such as grilled fish, chicken, and pork.
AWARDS
- 92 PT GOLD MEDAL 2008 BTI WORLD WINE CHAMPIONSHIPS
- 90 PTS WINE ENTHUSIAST
|
|
|
Detailed Wine Information
|
| Acidity: | 6.9 |
| Alcohol: | 14.8% |
| Appellation: | Santa Lucia Highlands |
| Bottling Date: | September 14, 2007 |
| Harvest Date: | October 21 & 30, 2006 |
| Special Designation: | Family Estate Vineyard |
| Sugar: | 27.3 |
| Year: | 2006 |
|