Spring Release Dutton-Jentoft Vineyard Pinot Noir
2022

Winemaker’s Notes

Of all our 2022 Pinots, the new vintage of Dutton-Jentoft is the closest in style and structure to its 2021 predecessor. The wine is as delicious as it is distinctive and perfectly expressive of this steep hillside vineyard that sits close to the coast at high elevation. The wine shows a lovely balance between tiny-berry coastal fruits, bright acidity and fine supple tannins. There are significant savory umami influences akin to briny oyster shells and a sea breeze. It’s a medium weight wine that sits beautifully on the palate: plush, dynamic and silky. These vines at sixteen years old are in their most productive window for quality and this shows in the consistency of the vineyard each year – one of our favorite sites, and truly distinctive.

Great aromatic complexity: intense dark fruits, truffle, spice, bay laurel and dark olive. Quite direct, with a sense of pinpoint focus to the aromas and flavors. The red and black berry fruits are at once crunchy and fresh, becoming supple and broad as the wine opens. With air, layers of texture appear bringing depth and carrying the wine through to a finish of dried herbs and sandalwood spice. Drink between late-2024 and 2032.

Andy Smith